Three cases of the Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy have been confirmed at Fonner Park in Grand Island, Nebraska, resulting in State Veterinarian Dr. Dennis Hughes calling for horse owners to use best biosecurity practices. Samples were collected and sent to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa, where the disease was confirmed. One of the affected horses was euthanized onsite while the other two have been isolated on the premises.
The Nebraska Department of Agriculture in cooperation with Fonner Park management has quarantined the horses located at Fonner Park. Horses located in the Red Barn (where the affected horses were stabled) will not be allowed to race at present time. Racing will continue at Fonner Park with the horses located in the other barns on the premises.
EHM is the neurological form of Equine Herpes Virus. Cases of the diseases have been confirmed at several locations around the country, many of them at horse race tracks or events where horses are co-mingled.
To read the rest of the story click here
