A deadly outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1) has been detected in Texas following a rodeo event in Waco, prompting widespread caution across the horse industry. While the virus cannot infect humans, people can inadvertently spread it among horses. The virus is highly contagious and can be fatal in about 40% of cases. In response, horse owners like Bob and Morgan Brawley of Brawley Farms in Double Oak have halted all horse movements and discouraged visits to other stables to prevent further spread. Additionally, some horse shows outside Texas are barring horses from Texas and Oklahoma to limit risk.

Precautionary measures have led to the Fort Worth Stockyards postponing their twice-daily cattle drives until after Thanksgiving, despite having no infected horses on site. The Texas Agricultural Commissioner urges horse owners to monitor their animals closely and consult veterinarians immediately if symptoms appear, emphasizing the importance of booster vaccinations even for previously vaccinated horses. Meanwhile, the National Cutting Horse Futurity in Fort Worth remains scheduled, with enhanced sanitation protocols in place. The next two weeks are critical to determining if the outbreak can be contained.