Equine herpes virus reported contained

LAKEWOOD – The Colorado Department of Agriculture’s state veterinarian’s
office is reporting that the recent equine herpes virus (EHV-1) is
“considered contained,” with no new cases confirmed in the state since
May 20.

“I’m proud of the coordinated effort by the horse industry,
veterinarians, event coordinators and our office,´ said Keith Roehr,
state veterinarian. “Without the proactive collaboration of all
involved, this disease could have had an even greater negative impact on
Colorado’s horse industry.”

As of June 22, Colorado had nine confirmed cases of EHV-1, two of which
were euthanized after showing severe neurological signs associated with
the disease.

The Department of Agriculture said there are currently no suspect cases.
Two unidentified facilities remained under quarantine or a hold order
but those facilities were on track to be released soon, the department
said.

“This is great news for Colorado’s horse industry and it seems this
disease hit its peak in May, but I want to caution horse owners that
this outbreak serves as a good reminder that proper disease prevention
efforts are important anytime you travel with livestock,” Roehr said.

Horses entering Colorado must now have a permit to do so. Horse owners
must first contact their veterinarian and the vet must contact the state
veterinarian’s office at 303-239-4161 to request a permit number.

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