An outbreak of equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM), also referred to as neurotropic equine herpes virus -1 (nEHV-1) has been confirmed on a single premises in southern Saskatchewan.
The first symptoms noted were sporadic abortions (6) in a group of 70 late-term brood mares, followed by severe neurological symptoms in five horses which were subsequently euthanized. Equine herpes virus-1 (EHV-1) was confirmed by PCR on June 4.
The premises has self-quarantined, under supervision of the herd veterinarian; it is anticipated that all animals currently on the premises will not be moved for a period of several months. No animals were moved off the premises in the weeks prior to the outbreak. Animal movements onto the farm in the weeks prior to the outbreak are being investigated to try to identify a potential source of introduction of the virus.
More details may be found on the CAHSS website.
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