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 simple, proactive measures to protect our herds. We will be posting a biosecurity protocol this afternoon after consulting with the Alabama State Vet.
Below is a summary of the latest guidance from Brazos Valley Equine Hospitals (BVEH), who are closely monitoring the situation:
🚫 1. Limit Travel & Keep Horses Home
Hauling, shows, clinics, and mixing horse groups increases risk.
Movement is currently the #1 factor spreading EHV-1.
🌡️ 2. 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.
⚠️ 3. Watch for These Signs & Contact Your Vet Immediately
• 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.
💊 4. Follow Veterinary Guidance for Exposed or Febrile Horses
Your veterinarian may recommend:
• Valacyclovir
• Anti-thrombotics (e.g., aspirin)
• Anti-inflammatories
• Supportive care
(These should only be given under veterinary direction.)
🧼 5. Practice Strong Biosecurity
• Do NOT share buckets, tack, grooming tools, or stalls
• Disinfect trailers, thermometers, and high-touch areas
• Immediately isolate any horse with a fever
💉 About Vaccination
While vaccines do not prevent the neurologic form (EHM), they can reduce viral shedding and help limit barn-wide spread.
Boosters are most helpful when:
• It’s been > 90 days since the last vaccination, or
• A horse will enter a higher-risk environment in the future
Do not vaccinate febrile or currently exposed horses without veterinary clearance.
✔️ Staying Informed
Brazos Valley Equine continues to monitor cases across Texas and is sharing updates with veterinarians statewide. They also have EHV and biosecurity resources available at bveh.com.
We will continue watching the situation and will share important updates as they become available. In the meantime, staying alert and using good biosecurity is our best defense.
If you have questions about your horse’s exposure risk, vaccination status, or preventive care, please reach out. Let’s work together to keep our herds healthy and safe.
