Context: Recently, there has been an outbreak of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1) among horses in Europe. So far seven countries have confirmed EHV-1 cases: Spain, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Sweden and Qatar.
Key Points
About Equine Herpes Virus (EHV)
- Equine Herpes Virus is a common DNA virus that occurs in horse populations worldwide.
- EHV is a family of viruses which are named by numbers such as EHV 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.
- There are more viruses in this family, but EHV 1, 3, and 4 pose the most serious health risks for domestic horses.
Health Risks
- EHV1 can cause manifestations of disease in horses, including respiratory disease, abortion and neonatal death.
- This strain can also cause neurological problems, leading to paralysis and in some cases, death. Horses that contract this virus can develop a lack of coordination, weakness, loss of appetite and are unable to stand.
Spread of EHV-1 Virus
- It is contagious and spread by direct horse-to-horse contact via the respiratory tract through nasal secretions.
- This virus can also be spread indirectly through contact with physical objects that are contaminated with the virus.
- Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy (EHM) is another name for the neurologic disease associated with Equine Herpes Virus (EHV) infections.
Precautions and Treatment: As the infection has a high transmission rate, keeping a diseased horse in isolation is required. Treatments may include anti-inflammatory drugs