Equine virus outbreak

A multi-state outbreak of equine herpesvirus is under close monitoring.  According to Livestock-Poultry officials at Clemson University, the outbreak is linked to barrel racing and rodeo-type events in Texas and Oklahoma.  By late last week, there were no confirmed South Carolina cases, but the highly contagious nature of the virus in horses warrants heightened vigilance and safeguards.  At least 27 cases associated with the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association World Championship Barrel Racing in Waco, Texas are confirmed. Horse owners who encounter horses with acute neurological disease are asked to contact the Clemson department at 803/788-2260 for consultation and testing.