An outbreak of equine herpes virus (EHV 1)has occurred in Gloucestershire and the British Horse Society has put together some advice for horse owners. Currently two horses have been shown to have the neurological form of the disease and one the respiratory form.
Coughing horse: One symptom of EVH-1
An outbreak of equine herpes virus (EHV 1)has occurred in England, with two horses diagnosed with the neurological form and one with the respiratory form.
It appears that others are also showing signs but have yet to be definitively diagnosed. The yard has been isolated while an epidemiological investigation is conducted.
Although not a legally notifiable condition, EHV 1 is contagious and does have the potential to be a serious disease. The neurological form can lead to paralysis. 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.
It is important to be aware that the risk of your horse contracting EHV 1 is very small and there is certainly no need to panic. However, as with any disease, spotting it early is the best thing for your horse.
Many of the clinical signs of EHV 1 can be confused with other diseases. 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.
Read more about Equine Herpesvirus EHV-1