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Equine Herpesvirus: Welfare and Biosecurity

Equine herpesvirus causes respiratory disease, abortion, and neurological disease in horses. This guide covers welfare implications and biosecurity.

Key Facts

EHV-1 and EHV-4 are the most clinically significant herpesvirus types in horses
EHV-1 causes respiratory disease, abortion storms, and neurological disease (EHM)
Neurological EHM can cause severe ataxia, bladder paralysis, and limb weakness
The virus establishes latency, reactivating under stress
Vaccination reduces respiratory disease but does not fully protect against EHM
Biosecurity is the most effective tool for limiting spread in outbreaks

Welfare Considerations and Management

Welfare management of EHV requires both prevention and outbreak control. Vaccination reduces respiratory disease and abortion; the extent of neurological protection is less certain. Biosecurity during outbreaks (isolation of affected horses, restricted movement, equipment disinfection) limits spread. Welfare support for EHM cases includes bladder management, supportive nursing, and anti-inflammatory treatment. Many EHM horses show significant recovery with appropriate management.

What You Can Do

Maintain appropriate EHV vaccination protocols as advised by your vet
Report suspected EHV cases immediately to your vet and other livery yard users
Implement strict biosecurity when EHV is confirmed on a premises
Provide intensive supportive nursing for neurological EHM cases