Here’s an update from Fairfield Equine Associates in Newtown, Connecticut:

“We are pleased to announce that the horse in our hospital that developed a fever post-surgically and tested positive on a nasal swab for EHV-1 continues to recover nicely. He has not displayed any neurologic signs since the onset of his fever on December 24, 2006.

“The remaining horses at our facility are still in good health and have not shown signs of EHV-1 infection. We have maintained contact with owners, trainers and stable managers for horses that were at our facility since the infected horse was admitted. None of these horses have displayed clinical signs consistent with EHV-1.

“The advice of several prominent equine epidemiologists is being sought to determine the best course of action dealing with this virus into the future.”

A detailed article about Fairfield Equine’s steps to manage the infected horse, including comments from veterinarian Mark Baus, appeared in the local newspaper, the Newtown Bee.

Note: epidemiology of this disease is not a simple matter. Many healthy horses might test positive for the presence of the virus. Stress, as when a horse undergoes surgery, is thought to be one of several factors that might cause a horse to become ill or shed the virus. Learn more in this comprehensive article from the American Association of Equine Practitioners.

? 2006-2007 The Jurga Report: Horse Health Headlines. All rights reserved.

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