The Animal Health Trust has recently confirmed an outbreak of EHV-1 neurological disease in Gloucestershire. Two horses have been identified and have links to hunting with the Heythrop, who have suspended hunting at present, and the yard where the horses are stabled has been isolated.
EHV-1 is contagious and does have the potential to be serious although it’s not a legally notifiable condition. In most cases, EHV 1 is spread via respiratory transmission so wherever horses are brought together from different yards there is the possibility for the disease to spread if one of the horses present is affected.
There is no need to panic but Members are recommended to be aware of the signs, be vigilant, act responsibly and be aware of the risks; particularly if you live in the area. It may be necessary to implement a quarantine system with a minimum of 10 days recommended if you have been hunting with the Heythrop since 24 January.
Many of the clinical signs of EHV 1 are similar other diseases. The British Horse Society say; "A high temperature is a key indicator and it is essential to monitor the temperature of ‘at risk’ horses. Affected horses will tend to be disinterested and off their food, as well as showing typical respiratory disease signs such as coughing and a nasal discharge. If a horse is affected by the neurological form of the disease you may see some incoordination or just general ‘wobbliness’."
Should you have any concerns at all that your horse may be affected please contact your vet immediately.
Find out more on the HBLB code of practice for equine herpes - click here.