June 11, 2019 – A confirmed outbreak of EHV-1 in a single Southern Saskatchewan premises. It was confirmed by a PCR test on June 4, 2019. The premises is under quarantine and they are investigating the cause of the outbreak. Five horses have been euthanized that presented with neurologic symptoms of the virus.
It is a highly contagious virus and is most commonly spread by close contact with the infected horses nasal secretions. It can also be spread by inanimate objects or their human caregivers.
- Contaminated hands or clothing
- Contaminated feed or water containers
- Contaminated tack or grooming supplies
- Contaminated trailers
The incubation period of the virus is typically 4-6 days. First sign is a fever that spikes early (around day 1 or 2) , then reappears again later around day 6 or 7.
- Lethargy
- Nasal discharge
- Uncoordinated movement
- Hind limb weakness
- Leaning against structures for support and to maintain balance
- Head tilt
- Inability to rise
- Loss of tail tone
If you see any of the above symptoms quarantine the horse and contact us immediately!
For prevention the best method is to vaccinate your horses. ESPECIALLY if you travel with them, or have horses that aren’t your own visit your property. We carry vaccinations that have EHV-1 as a component in the vaccine. It’s the best method to protect your equine friends.
For more information and to monitor the progress of the outbreak please visit the links below: