Test results show the horse that showed symptoms last week was positive for neurological Equine Herpes Virus. That horse’s symptoms prompted the state to quarantine all horses at Turf Paradise. The quarantine requires all horses at the track to stay and for no horses to come onto the property for 21 days from last confirmed case at the track.
The quarantine follows three horses coming from Dona Ana County, New Mexico where 31 horses have been diagnosed with Equine Herpes Virus, reported by the ADI last week. The New Mexico Livestock Board quarantined several locations, but the horses at Turf Paradise left before the restrictions were in place.
Turf Paradise immediately isolated the three horses following that disease report and monitored for clinical signs. The track is also requiring strict biosecurity measures for all horse owners and personnel at the track.
“The confirmation of the virus does not change anything at the track,” said Acting State Veterinarian Sue Gale, DVM. “All horses are still ordered to stay on the premises. The track, veterinarians and the Department are monitoring all horses for symptoms.”
Equine Herpes Virus is highly contagious among horses but poses no threat to humans. The symptoms include a fever, nasal discharge, wobbly gait, hind-end weakness, dribbling of urine and diminished tail tone.
The virus is easily spread by airborne transmission, horse-to-horse contact and by contact with nasal secretions on equipment, tack, feed and other surfaces. Caretakers can spread the virus to horses if their hands, clothing, shoes or vehicles are contaminated.
“If horse owners notice these symptoms, they should contact their personal vet,” said Dr. Gale. “If veterinarians see a horse with these symptoms, they need to report the case to the state veterinarian.”
Officials at Turf Paradise say the track will remain open and that there is no concern for people who attend the races. Officials with the Department of Agriculture, Racing Commission, and Turf Paradise will continue to work together to resolve the issue.