Kansas Animal Health Commissioner Justin Smith emphasizes the importance of biosecurity to control the spread of Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), a contagious virus causing respiratory issues, abortion, and neurological damage in horses. Recent outbreaks in at least seven U.S. states have been linked to large horse events, prompting some states to regulate or cancel shows. The neurological form, Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy (EHM), can cause severe symptoms including paralysis, with a mortality rate of 30-50%. While vaccines exist, they do not reliably prevent EHM, making strict biosecurity measures essential.

Recommended precautions include isolating exposed horses for 14 days, monitoring temperatures twice daily, disinfecting equipment, minimizing horse-to-horse contact, and changing clothes and boots after events. Horse owners should also verify health protocols before traveling to events, as states may have additional requirements. Smith advises limiting exposure by attending events briefly and ensuring proper safety measures are in place. Updated information is available from the Equine Disease Communication Center, and suspected cases in Kansas should be reported to the state’s Division of Animal Health.