From: E.S. Rusty Ford, Equine Operations Consultant
Date: March 12, 2021

Results of the PCR testing conducted on samples collected Thursday were reported Thursday evening and did identify 5 additional EHV1 positive horses (neuropathogenic strain).  Two of the horses had been previously moved to the separate isolation barn, and we did relocate the additional three positive horses to isolation last night as well. With the 5 additional positive horses, our population of potentially exposed horses grew and samples are being collected and submitted from each of those 25 horses later this afternoon with results expected to be available over the weekend.

Index Case Update: Following a period of stability, the index case rapidly deteriorated and has been euthanized.

Other Guidance: Clearly, with the multiple ongoing EHV1 events involving multiple breeds, disciplines, and venues; Farms accepting new arrivals are to be reminded the IMPORTANCE of knowing the environment and status of where the horse arriving their farm originated and implementing needed husbandry practices that should include isolation, observation and assessment of the horse to insure healthy horses are introduced to your herd.

While our investigation of the KY event as well as monitoring of disease events in other states continues, Kentucky State Veterinarian Dr. Katie Flynn and I will be providing further updates as information becomes available.

Rusty

E.S. Rusty Ford
rusty.ford@ky.gov
Equine Operations Consultant
Office State Veterinarian
KY Department Agriculture
502-782-5924