RANDALL COUNTY, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — One case of Equine Herpesvirus, Neurologic, was confirmed in Randall County in connection to the recent outbreak of EHV-1 following the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association World Finals and Elite Barrel Race event.
The outbreak was alerted by Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller last Wednesday, and Miller urged all horse owners, trainers, and venue operators who attended or were in proximity to the event, or who have recently returned from any large equine gathering in the Waco region in the last 14 days, to monitor their animals carefully and implement heightened biosecurity measures.
According to previous reporting by MyHighPlains.com, those who should act immediately, according to the TDA, are those who:
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- Have a horse that was present at the WPRA event in the Waco area or transported one to/from that event.
- Have a horse that has mingled with those transported from that event.
- Any horse owner or facility operator who has recently participated in large multi–barn gatherings, roping jackpots, or traveled extensively enough to include the Waco region.
TDA also added that signs of EHV-1 can vary widely, and may include:
- Fever.
- Nasal discharge, coughing, or other respiratory changes.
- Depression or lethargy.
- Neurological signs: stumbling or incoordination, loss of tail tone, hind-limb weakness, head tilt, recumbency.
- Abortions in pregnant mares.
Officials noted that EHV-1 spreads quickly and making early precautions are essential. Horses can transmit the virus directly through nose-to-nose contact or by air via coughing or sneezing. Indirect transmission is also possible through shared tack, grooming tools, water and feed buckets, thermometers and other equipment. TDA also noted that humans can act as mechanical carriers by spreading the virus via their hands, clothing or boots…