Latest news with #EHV1
ABC News
7 days ago
- Health
- ABC News
Horse owners on alert after strain of equine herpesvirus type 1 found in Queensland
A rare neurological form of a common horse virus that can cause pregnant mares to abort foals has been detected in Queensland. Biosecurity Queensland confirmed equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) was found in Townsville and Toowoomba. Exact locations have not been disclosed, but authorities said one horse in the Townsville area showed neurological symptoms, while "a small number" of horses around Toowoomba had aborted foals. There is no risk to human health. Australian Veterinary Association president Gemma Chuck said EHV-1 was highly contagious and endemic across Australia, but the northern case was significant. "The neurological form is seen much more rarely [and] overseas, there have been deaths in horses." The virus usually causes mild respiratory illness or abortion in pregnant mares, but the neurological symptoms can include incoordination, hind-leg weakness, and difficulty standing, urinating or defecating. Dr Chuck said symptoms could resemble signs of Hendra virus, which could be fatal to horses and humans. "Just by looking at a horse with neurological signs, you're not going to know which one it is," she said. "This really shows the critical role that veterinarians have in protecting public health." A Queensland Department of Primary Industries spokesperson said tracing and risk assessments were complete and "the risk of this incident becoming a widespread outbreak remains low." Unlike Hendra virus, EHV-1 poses no risk to humans and spreads only between horses and donkeys. It is transmitted through direct contact, inhalation of respiratory droplets, or contaminated equipment. Horse owners are being urged to review their biosecurity protocols, limit horse movements, isolate sick animals, disinfect gear, and speak with veterinarians about vaccination. With the winter racing season, campdrafting, and major rodeos underway, Dr Chuck warned against moving unwell horses. "[In] overseas scenarios … there's been a lot of event cancellation when these things have got out of control," she said. "If your horse isn't well, then absolutely 100 per cent, it needs to stay at home." Horse owners are required by law to report suspected cases to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or the Emergency Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Yahoo
07-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Washington Co. horse tests positive for virus that leads to debilitating disease
The Brief Minnesota Board of Animal Health authorities have learned about a horse in Washington County testing positive for equine herpesvirus type 1, or EHV-1. The virus can develop into a debilitating neurological disease known as Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy (EHM) that can lead to incoordination and hind-end weakness. Authorities say a quarantine for the remaining 60 horses on the owner's property has been started to control its spread, and the horse has shown marked improvement since initially being reported. WASHINGTON Co., Minn. (FOX 9) - Authorities have posted a notice that a Washington County horse that has reportedly tested positive for an infectious virus that can develop into a debilitating neurological disease. EHV-1 in Washington County What we know The Minnesota Board of Animal Health says it received notification of a 16-year-old mare testing positive for equine herpesvirus type 1, or EHV-1 on April 25. The virus can develop into a debilitating neurological disease known as Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy (EHM) that can cause incoordination and hind-end weakness, according to the University of Minnesota's Animals and Liverstock Department. Authorities say the horse's owner first noticed symptoms on April 22 and voluntarily allowed a veterinarian to examine the horse, who then saw significant balance and muscle control issues. What's next Authorities say a quarantine of the remaining 60 horses on the owner's property was implemented to control the spread of the virus. All quarantined horses will be monitored closely for symptoms. The infected horse has shown marked improvement in the last 48 hours, according to a statement.
