Source: Texas Agriculture
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller and the Texas Department of Agriculture issued an urgent alert following confirmation of an aggressive Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1) outbreak linked to the Nov. 5–9 WPRA World Championship Barrel Racing Finals in Waco. Horse owners, trainers, and facility operators who attended the event (or any recent large equine gathering in the region) are urged to monitor horses closely and implement strict biosecurity measures.
EHV-1 spreads rapidly through direct contact, aerosolized particles, shared equipment, and even contaminated human clothing. Symptoms range from fever and respiratory issues to neurological problems and abortions in pregnant mares. The TDA recommends immediate isolation of exposed horses for at least 14 days, halting travel and events, disinfecting equipment and facilities, avoiding shared tack, and checking temperatures twice daily. Miller emphasized that early detection is crucial to protecting animals and preventing broader spread, urging the equine community to act swiftly to safeguard Texas’ $12.3 billion horse industry.