Jun 1, 2011
Several states in the Western U.S. are scrambling to deal with a recent outbreak of equine (horse) herpes, which has forced the cancellation of horse races, events, shows and rodeos in their prime season. Highly contagious, horse owners are being urged to keep their horses under quarantine in order to stop the spread of the virus.
Equine Herpes Virus (EHV) has five classifications, with EHV-2 and EHV-4 being the two most severe forms. The virus lives in the horse’s nostrils, and the most common cause of contraction is through inhalation or nasal discharge. Unlike human forms of herpes, physical contact is not necessary in order for horses to contract the virus.
Depending upon the classification of the virus, it usually incubates for 2 to 10 days before symptoms appear. Every form of EHV has different symptoms associated with it, which can include fever, nasal discharge, enlarged glands, incontinence, decreased performance, miscarriage, weakness in hind legs, lesions, and strange gait. Neurological impairments such a paralysis can occur in instances of EHV-1. It is essential for infected horses to be quarantined from other horses as the disease is highly contagious; tack should be disinfected and handlers should be careful to change their clothes/gloves after exposure to prevent the spread to uninfected horses.
Equine Herpes Virus is very difficult to treat because it hides out in the horse’s immune system, often becoming dormant and then reappearing and causing a variety of secondary infections. Traditional treatment includes the use of antibiotics to help treat infections; a strict, balanced diet; optimal hydration and plenty of fresh air. A short-term preventative vaccine is also available and needs to be re-administered every 3-6 months in order to be effective. Though there is no known cure for Equine Herpes Virus at this time, view our guide below for a list of remedies that may help to build the horse’s immunity and support their bodies to heal naturally.
Equine Herpes Remedy Combining Guide
Further reading:
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