EHV1 update from Rusty Ford

Horsemen: This memo was sent out by Rusty Ford, the equine operations consultant for Kentucky’s office of the state veterinarian in the Department of Agriculture.

Subject: EHV1 UPDATE 3/11/21 EHM Confirmed Case KY

Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy (EHM) has been confirmed in a 3yo thoroughbred filly in Woodford County, Kentucky.

The filly reportedly had a fever on Saturday, and was referred to a veterinary hospital in Lexington Tuesday evening after becoming unstable and ataxic.

The Kentucky State Veterinarians Office was alerted of the suspected EHV case on Tuesday night and the training facility was placed under restriction pending completion of diagnostic testing.

PCR Testing conducted at Equine Diagnostic Solutions in Lexington, KY reported the neuropathogenic strain of EHV1 was detected from the nasal swab.

Animal Health Officials have been present at the facility, previously imposed restrictions remain in place, and 27 exposed horses had samples (nasal swabs and whole blood) collected earlier today and submitted for PCR Testing.

The horse was reported last night as showing signs of improvement.

There is no connection to any other EHV1 incidents

In addition to the affected premises, precautionary measures have been implemented at Turfway Park (live race meet) with all horses shipping in to race being required to stable in the receiving barn – unless trainer has permanently assigned stalls at Turfway.  In addition to adjustment of stabling, biosecurity protocols have been elevated.  The KY State Veterinarians office has personnel onsite examining health documents and coordinating efforts with the Ky Horse Racing Commission’s staff.

Updates will be provided as information is learned.