The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has been advised that a horse stabled at Woodbine Racetrack has tested positive for the neurotropic strain of EHV-1. After exhibiting neurological symptoms, the horse was transported to the Ontario Veterinary College where it was confirmed positive and is currently recovering.
An EHV Biosecurity Plan has been initiated at Woodbine as a precautionary measure, which includes restricting access to the affected barn and ongoing monitoring of the other horses stabled there.
The other 63 horses in the barn have tested negative for EHV-1 and have not exhibited any symptoms. These horses will continue to be closely monitored as they resume training and will not be permitted to race or train with other horses stabled at Woodbine.
The AGCO recommends that industry participants remain vigilant and check horse temperature twice a day. Any horses exhibiting elevated temperatures or other neurological symptoms will be immediately moved to an isolation barn.
While it cannot be spread to humans, EHV-1 is a highly contagious infectious disease that may cause significant illness and even death in horses.
The AGCO will continue to monitor the situation closely and further developments will be reported.
More information
• Animal health: equine herpesvirus | ontario.ca
• Equine Herpesvirus | Equine Disease Communication Center
Questions
For questions related to biosecurity measures, please contact:
Dr. Pamela Chesterfield
Senior Manager of Veterinary Services
(519) 551-1037