NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD-TV) — Horse owners across the southwest are on alert after an outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1). The virus first appeared following events in Texas and Arizona, and some horses have already died.
Veterinarians say it spreads quickly through contact, shared equipment, trailers, and even human clothing. Exposed horses should be isolated for at least two weeks, and ranches and events are tightening biosecurity. Events, including a Scottsdale roping, have been postponed to protect animals.
Authorities urge owners to stay home, limit travel, and monitor their horses closely to stop the spread.
Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller issued an alert earlier this week to Texas horsemen.
“This virus can spread fast, it can be deadly, and the earliest signs are often so subtle they’re easy to miss. That’s why monitoring your horses right now is critical. The quicker we identify a potential case, the better chance we have to protect not only our animals, but the entire Texas equine community.”
While treatable with a vaccine, anthrax is a dangerous threat to cattle herd health if not identified and treated immediately.
September 26, 2025 06:10 PM
·
Lower inventories and cautious farrowing plans suggest tighter hog supplies into 2026, keeping producer margins sensitive to demand trends and health risks.
September 26, 2025 11:28 AM
·
Fewer placements and historically low marketings point to tighter cattle supplies ahead, with Nebraska and Kansas gaining ground as Texas feedlots face supply pressure and the threat of New World Screwworm.
September 24, 2025 03:40 PM
·
Industry-wide participation in SHIP enhances biosecurity and fosters global trust in U.S. pork, says swine health expert, Dr. Christine Mainquist-Whigham.
September 24, 2025 03:32 PM
·
What is it like working cattle with an outbreak of New World Screwworm so close to home? Wayne Cockrell, with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, joined us on Wednesday to discuss.
September 24, 2025 12:29 PM
·
“We believe that it is just a matter of days or weeks... before we see New World screwworm in Texas.”
September 23, 2025 11:08 AM
Farmers may benefit from higher turkey prices this holiday season, but risks from HPAI and limited poult placements could further strain the supply.
September 23, 2025 10:35 AM
·
September 23, 2025 09:42 AM
·
With the latest detection just across the border, animal health officials on both sides are intensifying efforts to contain the outbreak before it spreads further north.
September 22, 2025 09:51 AM
·
