Source:
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Number Confirmed: 2; Number Exposed: 67; Facility Type: Boarding Facility; Age: 8; Gender: Breed: Onset of Clinical Signs: Clinical Signs: Ataxia, Weakness of Hind Limbs; Confirmation Date: Horse Status: Vaccination Status: Notes: Update 3/10/21: The first horse with neurological signs was reported by a private veterinary practitioner in Marion County, on March 1, 2021. The horse subsequently tested positive for the Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1), neurotrophic strain. As of March 9, 2021, the affected horse (index) continues to be treated in a separate isolation facility. The Division of Animal Industry placed the premises under quarantine and immediately began a disease investigation. A second horse stalled immediately adjacent to the index horse while at the farm was confirmed positive for EHV-1, on March 4. Although it has been febrile , th is second horse is not exhibiting neurologic symptoms, and is being treated at a separate isolation facility. Two additional horses from the WEC which had fevers were tested for EHV-1 and were both negative. No new cases of EHV-1 have been identified in Florida at this time. The Division of Animal Industry continues to strongly recommend horse owners and trainers enact strict biosecurity measures for horses that may have been stabled at WEC during the above dates. In light of the recent EHV-1 outbreak in Europe, we are encouraging all facilities to isolate horses importing into Florida from the affected regions in Europe. We have not enacted quarantines or movement restrictions on any facilities other than the single farm in Marion County. ;