11/21/2025
π£ EHV-1 Precaution Update π΄β€οΈ
Out of an abundance of caution regarding the recent EHV-1 outbreak, Iβve made the decision to pause all Equine MagnaWave sessions for the next two weeks.
Although I have not been around any horses personally or with my equipment since October and have not had any exposure, I believe taking this pause is the most responsible step. Quarantining and strict biosecurity truly matter.
Having experienced a farm quarantine myself, I know how frightening it can be β and how critical and extensive the safety measures are to protect every horse on the property.
EHV-1 can be spread through clothing, shoes, vehicles, equipment, and even our breath, and I would never risk being a carrier. Your horsesβ health and safety will always come first. ππ
I deeply appreciate every one of you for your understanding and for helping keep our equine community safe. If you have any questions at all, please reach out.
Stay safe, stay aware, and take care of your horses. π«Άπ΄
Two positive cases of Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy (EHM), the neurologic form of EHV-1, have led to the cancellation of the remaining Barrel Futurities of America (BFA) World Championship events scheduled for Nov. 17β22 at the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie, OK. Both affected horses had previously competed at the Womenβs Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) event in Waco, Texas (Nov. 5β9) before traveling to Oklahoma.
Below is what you need to know β¬οΈ
β What is EHV/EHM?
Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) is a common virus in horses.
EHM, its neurologic form, is rare but serious and potentially life-threatening. Horses may shed the virus for 2β10 days before showing signs.
πWhy was the event canceled?
The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry confirmed two EHM cases in horses that attended both the WPRA event and traveled to Oklahoma. Officials are concerned other horses may have moved between the WPRA and the BFA events, increasing exposure risk.
π¦ How Does EHV-1 Spread?
EHV-1 can spread through nose-to-nose contact or inhalation of respiratory droplets, via contaminated surfaces (stalls, water/feed buckets, tack, trailers), or humans can also spread the virus through contaminated hands, clothing, and equipment.
π‘οΈ Recommended Actions for Horse Owners
If your horse attended the event, you should isolate your horse for 14 days after returning home. Take and record twice-daily temperatures (monitor for 101.5Β°F or higher) and consider increasing biosecurity and disinfection measures on your farm.
You should contact your veterinarian if your horse may have been exposed or shows any concerning signs.
For detailed information on signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of EHM, visit: https://equinediseasecc.org/equine-herpesvirus
If you have questions beyond what we've shared in this post, please give our office a call at (614) 292-6661.