Woodbine Entertainment has confirmed that two horses sent to University of Guelph on May 16 have tested positive for Equine Herpes Virus EHV-1.
EHV is a common DNA virus that occurs in horse populations worldwide. The fact that is resides in all horses without afflicting symptoms is often compared to chickenpox in humans.
The two most common species are EHV-1, which causes abortion, respiratory disease and neurologic disease; and EHV-4, which usually causes respiratory disease only but can occasionally cause abortion and rarely neurological disease.
EHV-1 myeloencephalopathy (EHM), another name for the neurologic disease associated with equine herpesvirus (EHV) infections. results from, essentially stress; stemming widespread vascular or blood vessel injury after damage to the lining of the blood vessels of the blood-brain barrier. Neurologic signs result from inflammation of the blood vessels, blood clots, and death of neurologic tissue.
EHV-1 has an incubation period of approximately 3 to 8 days, and may in some cases be as long as 14 days. It is spread by nasal secretions and can live on gloves, boots and equipment.
The two horses that are being cared for at Equine Guelph resided in Barn 12 on the backstretch. Three others from that barn have been moved to quarantine for precautionary measures only. Testing in Barn 12 will begin May 17 with results known Tuesday. The horses in Barn 12 will not be permitted outside the barn until test results are received.
The horsepeople on the Woodbine backstretch have been managing the difficult COVID-19 virus among humans since March, leading to a postponement of racing. Racing at Woodbine is set to return June 6.
“This will be an evolving situation, and we will keep [horsepeople] updated with information as it is known,” said Jessica Buckley, Woodbine Entertainment’s senior vice president of racing. “This news is an added challenge during an already difficult time, however, protocols already in place may ultimately help us contain this faster.”
Pony riders, other than those who reside with a trainer, will not be permitted to pony horses until further notice.
Woodbine, the HBPA and AGCO plus the trainer and veterinary team for the affected barn have worked quickly to contain the spread. The following measures were in place beginning Sunday morning:
- All horses on the Woodbine Backstretch must have their temperatures taken twice daily. Trainers with horses that have clinical signs consistent with EHV-1 infection (including fever (101.5 F/38.5 C or above), respiratory signs (cough, nasal discharge and/or neurological signs) must report these findings to their veterinarian immediately;
- Blacksmiths, Dentists, and Exercise Riders must be diligent about washing all equipment, boots, gloves and clothes.
- No horses will be permitted to ship out of Woodbine until further notice. Horses planning to ship in to Woodbine will be permitted.
- Horses from Barn 12 will be allowed to train at a designated time, after clearance is provided by testing
- Horse people are reminded to remain vigilant and institute appropriate biosecurity measures and should consult their veterinarians for advice. AGCO veterinary services recommends a disinfectant Accelerated Hydrogen Peroxide brand name “Prevail”.
Woodbine was hit with an outbreak of EHV-1 in June 2013 when racing was ongoing. Two barns ended up being locked down with five horses testing positive.
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