|
|
No reports of equine virus in KansasKansas Horse owners are expressing considerable concern about several recently confirmed cases of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1) in states across the U.S. The virus has resulted in the deaths of several horses and led to the cancellation of one major equine event and speculation about others. Colorado currently has nine confirmed cases of EHV-1. There are additional suspect cases in other states. For those horse owners planning on traveling to Colorado, the requirements for entry are a certificate of veterinary inspection, recorded temperature, current Coggins test and an entry permit. Kansas Livestock Commissioner Bill Brown, a veterinarian, has received no reports of EHV-1 cases in Kansas. "We are closely monitoring the situation, and talking to other states in an effort to obtain the most current information," Brown said. One Kansas horse was at the Ogden, Utah, event where the virus is thought to have originated, but that particular horse did not return to Kansas. The animal is under quarantine outside of Lincoln, Neb. Brown said he and other Kansas Animal Health Department officials have no plans to force cancellation of any equine-related events at this time. This could change pending new developments or confirmation of EHV-1 in the state. EHV-1 is not transmissible to humans. The contagious virus causes respiratory disease, neurologic disorders and death in the equine species. The most common way for the disease to spread is through direct horse-to-horse contact. Clinical symptoms include fever, nasal discharge and incoordination of the hind limbs. Brown said horse owners should practice proper biosecurity procedures and contact their local veterinarian with any questions or concerns regarding the disease or transmission. Additional information on the disease is available at the Kansas State University Center for Veterinary Medicine website at www.vet.ksu.edu under "Public Health/Veterinary Alerts."
|
|
