- Read more: "Neurologic EHV-1 Reported in Pennsylvania"
Disclaimer: Seek the advice of a qualified veterinarian before proceeding with any diagnosis, treatment, or therapy.
Horses at Rolling Hills Ranch stable in Bridgeville, Allegheny County, Pa., have been quarantined after at least three horses tested positive for the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus-1, or EHV-1, Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff said today.
"Equine herpesvirus causes upper respiratory infection and can cause severe neurological disease in horses," said Wolff. "The quarantine was put in place to restrict the movement of horses from the stable and contain the virus."
The quarantine covers the entire property, including five barns housing more than 100 horses. It will remain in effect until a period of 21 days has elapsed without relevant clinical signs in any horses. At that point, all horses will be tested for EHV-1 and the quarantine will be released when all horses test negative.
The attending veterinarian at Rolling Hills Ranch recognized clinical signs consistent with the neurologic form of EHV-1 in several horses and alerted the Bureau of Animal Health and Diagnostic Services on July 19.
Clinical signs of the neurologic form of EHV-1 include loss of coordination, weakness or paralysis of the hind limbs, and incontinence. While other forms of equine herpesvirus occur commonly in horses, the neurologic form is considered a dangerous transmissible disease.
Presently, the bureau is testing and monitoring horses at Rolling Hills Ranch. Horse owners who have boarded their animals at the facility since July 7 should contact their local veterinarian if the horse exhibits clinical signs of the neurologic form of EHV-1. Owners with further concerns can call the Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Animal Health and Diagnostic Services at 717/772-2852.
There is no threat to human health from EHV-1.