Hold Ordered on Maryland Farm for Suspected EHV-1 Cases

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(from Maryland Jockey Club release)
Suspected cases of equine herpesvirus (EHV-1) caused the Maryland State Veterinarian to place an "Investigational Animal Hold Order" Jan. 26 on a private farm in Kent County.

The farm is used as an off-track training facility for a Pimlico-based trainer, but the state veterinarian office said it would not identify the farm or its location.

The farm received a horse from Pimlico on Jan. 10 before track officials closed movement to and from the facility. The Maryland Department of Agriculture is waiting for test results, which are expected next week, to determine the cause of illness for one horse euthanized Jan. 26 and another showing neurologic signs.

"This new occurrence is extremely unfortunate and we are working closely with everyone involved and using the best science available in the equine research community to prevent any possible spread of illness," said Guy Hohenhaus, Maryland state veterinarian. "It is believed that this incident is not a distinctly new case. We encourage horse owners with concerns to contact their private veterinarian to determine if a vaccination or booster is recommended for their horses at this time."

Updates will be posted daily on the MDA Web site.

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