The Maryland Jockey Club received notice of a horse that had neurological problems in its hind limbs on April 14, 2024. The horse did not have a fever at that time, and it hasn't had one since. This horse and another that had been near the ill animal but did not exhibit any signs were moved to an isolation barn at Laurel Park as a precaution. In addition, a fast quarantine was implemented for Barn 33, the equine that was afflicted.
We set up an Equine Herpesvirus (EHV) test for the afflicted horse and swiftly alerted the State Veterinarian's Office. We found out late yesterday that the first nasal swab was positive for EHV. Later this week, more testing is planned.
A thorough quarantine protocol for Barn 33 is now being developed in cooperation with the State Veterinarian's Office. With this approach, other barns will be able to carry on with their regular racing and training activities, while the horses in this barn will be able to train independently from the rest of the herd.
Every horse kept there must be constantly watched for any indications of fever or other EHV-like symptoms. Any horse showing symptoms of incoordination or registering a temperature higher than 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit has to be brought to the attention of an MJC veterinarian right away.