11/19/2025
🦠Equine Virus Update & Important Prevention Steps🦠
(Information sourced from Brazos Valley Equine Hospitals)
There is an active EHV-1 outbreak affecting horses in parts of Texas and Oklahoma, including several confirmed and suspected cases — some with neurologic symptoms (EHM). While this outbreak is NOT currently in our area, it’s important that we stay informed and take proactive steps to protect our herds.
---
🐴 Prevention Guidance for Horse Owners:
1️⃣ Limit Travel & Keep Horses Home
Hauling, shows, clinics, and mixing horse groups increases risk. Movement is currently the #1 factor spreading EHV-1.
2️⃣ Take Temperatures Twice Daily
Fever is often the very first sign — sometimes the only early sign.
📞 Call your vet for any temp ≥ 101.5°F.
3️⃣ Watch for These Signs & Contact Your Vet Immediately If Noticed
• Fever
• Weakness or incoordination
• Standing with hind legs wide
• Changes in tail tone
• Difficulty urinating
• Lethargy or decreased appetite
Early veterinary intervention can improve outcomes.
4️⃣ Follow Veterinary Guidance for Exposed or Febrile Horses
Your veterinarian may recommend antiviral medications, anti-inflammatories, or supportive care. Always follow veterinary direction.
5️⃣ Practice Strict Biosecurity
Do not share buckets, tack, or grooming tools. Disinfect trailers and equipment. Isolate any horse with fever immediately.
---
💉 Vaccination Guidance
• Vaccines do not prevent EHM, but they can reduce viral shedding and shorten viremia, lowering barn-wide spread.
Boosters are recommended for:
• Horses vaccinated more than 90 days ago
• Younger horses and those in active training/show schedules
• Horses that will be traveling or mixing with other populations
• Do not vaccinate horses that are febrile or already exposed until cleared by your veterinarian.
📌 First Equine Veterinary Services has no cases onsite.
It is safe to bring your horse for scheduled appointments. We are implementing enhanced biosecurity protocols and preparing an offsite triage location for any potentially sick horses.
We will continue to monitor the situation closely and share updates as they become available.
— First Equine Veterinary Services
