A significant outbreak of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) in Nova Scotia has prompted the cancellation of numerous equestrian events across the province, according to local veterinarians and horse owners. The outbreak, which has been linked to the death of four horses, has raised concerns within the equine community about the spread and management of this potentially deadly virus.
Dr. Trevor Lawson, an equine practitioner and president of the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, confirmed that the four deceased horses were all from the same barn in northern Nova Scotia. The first case was laboratory-confirmed on November 3, with the subsequent three cases being considered presumptive positives. In an interview at his Carrolls Corner home, Dr. Lawson stressed the seriousness of neurological diseases in horses, noting that “quite often it does not go well,” and that approximately half of the infected horses succumb to the disease.
The virus, known for its high transmissibility, can spread through airborne particles when an infected horse coughs, or through direct contact such as nasal secretions. Indirect transmission via shared water buckets or grooming equipment is also possible, as well as human-mediated spread through contact with infected horses.
Symptoms of the neurological strain of EHV-1 include fever, nasal discharge, weakness, and coordination problems. Dr. Lawson also highlighted that while many horses are carriers of the herpesvirus, not all will exhibit illness. He likened the virus’s behavior in horses to the way humans who carry herpesvirus experience cold sores under stress, suggesting that stressors such as transportation could trigger outbreaks in equine populations.
The situation is considered critical, with the next two weeks being pivotal in determining whether the virus has been successfully contained. Despite the outbreak’s current restriction to a single barn, the exact location of which has not been disclosed, the uncertainty of its spread remains a concern.
Equine herpesvirus is not federally reportable in Canada, a fact that has sparked debate within the equestrian community. In Ontario, the virus is reportable, meaning veterinarians must notify the Ministry of Agriculture upon diagnosis. However, in Nova Scotia, such reporting is not mandated. Dr. Lawson believes this approach is appropriate, given Nova Scotia’s differing equine industry dynamics compared to Ontario’s racing-centric industry.
This lack of mandatory reporting has led to frustration among horse owners. Bruce Trenholm of Creek View Farm in Northport expressed his concerns about the lack of communication, having discovered the outbreak only through an incidental conversation with a veterinarian. Similarly, Nikki Porter from Rock’n Horse Ranch in Amherst emphasized the need for transparency and honesty within the equine community to effectively manage and prevent the spread of the virus.
The financial impact of the outbreak is also being felt by horse owners and event organizers, with canceled events resulting in significant losses. However, as Trenholm and Porter pointed out, these financial sacrifices are necessary to prevent further loss of equine lives and to ensure the health and safety of the broader horse population.
As the situation evolves, the equine community in Nova Scotia remains on high alert, implementing stringent biosecurity measures and awaiting further developments. According to CBC News, the response to this outbreak will be crucial in shaping future policies and practices regarding equine herpesvirus management and reporting in the province.
