A sigh of relief for horse lovers in Texas: the equine herpesvirus outbreak appears to be waning! But don't put away the cleaning supplies just yet. This neurological disease, linked to the equine herpes virus, has caused quite a stir, but thankfully, the situation is improving.
According to Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, "We’ve passed the tipping point." He confirmed that there haven't been any new cases reported for a couple of weeks. However, he also emphasized the importance of continued vigilance, urging everyone in the industry to maintain stringent hygiene practices. This includes thoroughly cleaning feed and water troughs – a simple but crucial step. Miller even shared his personal approach, mentioning, "I bleach down my stalls when I go to a new event." He also stressed the need to isolate new horses for a few weeks before they socialize, highlighting the importance of "good cowboy logic" in protecting these animals.
The outbreak originated from the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association World Finals and Elite Barrel Race in Waco, between November 5-9. This event led to the disruption and postponement of numerous equine events.
The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, a major annual event scheduled to begin in January, is closely monitoring the situation. They are collaborating with the Texas Animal Health Commission and the Will Rogers Memorial Center and Dickies Arena. Together, they are establishing strict rules, regulations, and sanitary protocols to protect the horses, livestock, and poultry that participate each year. The Stock Show will remain in close communication with state agencies and equine association officials to mitigate risks.
But here's where it gets controversial... The Equine Disease Communication Center in Lexington, Kentucky, has documented cases of equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy in six states, with Texas reporting the highest number of cases. The center's website provides updated data on the outbreak. While the Texas Animal Health Commission is responsible for collecting and reporting these outbreaks, they have not responded to requests for interviews or information, including when the last cases were reported.
The virus primarily causes respiratory disease, but some strains can lead to neurological issues. These neurological symptoms arise from a lack of blood flow, which damages the brain or spinal cord. According to the center, Texas has seen 30 confirmed cases with neurological signs. Common clinical signs include fever, swelling of the limbs, hindlimb weakness, and urine dribbling. More severe cases can exhibit behavioral changes, cranial nerve dysfunction, seizures, and an inability to stand.
And this is the part most people miss... While the outbreak is serious, most cases aren't fatal. The center reports that 60-70% of affected horses recover with treatment and supportive care. Other states with confirmed cases include Oklahoma, Louisiana, South Dakota, Colorado, and New Mexico. Oklahoma has the second-highest number of cases, with nine. It's unclear how many cases outside of Texas are linked to the Waco event.
The Animal Health Commission advises horse owners to take the following precautions if their horses may have been exposed:
- Clean and disinfect all tack, boots, equipment, and grooming supplies.
- Isolate horses that attended the event for at least two weeks.
- Monitor returning horses' temperatures twice daily for at least 14 days after the last known exposure. Contact a veterinarian if a fever of 102.5 degrees or higher develops.
- When feeding and doing chores, work with the returning horses last. Wear boots and coveralls, and remove them before working with other horses.
- Wash your hands thoroughly.
- Submit laboratory samples for horses displaying clinical symptoms to the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory or another accredited lab.
What are your thoughts on these precautions? Do you think they are sufficient, or should more be done? Share your opinions in the comments below!
