On April 2, a horse exhibiting neurologic signs was transported to the isolation facility at Marion DuPont Scott Equine Medical Center in Leesburg, Va., from Anne Arundel County, Md., and it was euthanized shortly after arrival. On April 4, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Animal Health Lab in Warrenton, Virginia confirmed a diagnosis of equine herpesvirus-1.

The Marion DuPont Scott Equine Medical Center employed strict biosecurity measures and disinfection upon arrival and during the horse’s hospitalization. As a result, no horses in Virginia were exposed. The Equine Medical Center is operating normally.

The Maryland farm started a 21-day investigational hold on April 2, and strict biosecurity measures are in place while Maryland Department of Agriculture inspectors perform additional epidemiological and infectious disease testing. The stable owner is contacting boarders and students. Epidemiological links to the sick horse are being notified of the situation and owners are cautioned to monitor horses at their premises carefully.

For more information on EHV-1, visit the VDACS website or contact VDACS’ Office of Veterinary Services at 804.786.2483.