The Connecticut Department of Agriculture’s State Veterinarian is closely monitoring an outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus Type-1 (EHV-1) and its neurological form, Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy (EHM), linked to a recent barrel racing and rodeo-type event held in Waco, Texas.
Sixteen cases have been confirmed in Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, New Mexico, and Louisiana, with additional cases and equine deaths under investigation. Horses that attended or had contact with animals from the Waco event may have been exposed and could pose a risk of further transmission.
At this time, there are no confirmed cases of EHV or EHM in Connecticut. Connecticut’s State Veterinarian is awaiting trace information from affected states to determine if any exposed horses may have traveled to or through Connecticut. Owners of horses who traveled to the affected states should notify their veterinarian. If we receive traces from other states, we will contact those owners directly and in coordination with their attending veterinarian will issue quarantines to mitigate further spread of the disease.
This outbreak serves as a reminder of the potential disease risks associated with large commingling equine events. It underscores the importance of timely reporting of diseases and ensuring that movement restrictions are followed, including veterinary inspection and health certificates prior to travel.
Important Reminders for Equine Owners:
- Review and strengthen biosecurity protocols at home, at events, and on the road.
- Ensure vaccinations are current.
- Obtain a valid Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) before traveling.
- If your horse has recently traveled to Texas, Oklahoma, or another impacted state, monitor closely for symptoms such as fever, nasal discharge, or neurological signs.
- Consult your veterinarian if you suspect exposure or illness.
- Some states have implemented movement restrictions — always check with your destination state for current import requirements before traveling.
Resources
To learn more about symptoms, transmission, and treatment of EHV/EHM, visit the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) website.
For the most up-to-date verified information of confirmed cases, visit Equine Disease Communications Center (EDCC).
For more information on animals and animal health, including diseases that are reportable to the State Veterinarian, please visit the state website.
The Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) mission is to foster a healthy economic, environmental, and social climate for agriculture by developing, promoting, and regulating agricultural businesses; protecting agricultural and aquacultural resources; enforcing laws pertaining to domestic animals; and promoting an understanding among the state's citizens of the diversity of Connecticut agriculture, its cultural heritage, and its contribution to the state's economy. For more information, visit www.CTGrown.gov.
