The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) confirmed equine herpes myeloencephalopathy (EHM), the neurologic disease linked to equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), in a Denton County barrel racing horse on Feb. 21.

The horse showed signs of ataxia, loss of coordination in the muscles, and other neurologic signs consistent with EHM when evaluated by a local veterinarian. The horse’s home premises is under quarantine and TAHC staff is working closely with the owner and veterinarian to implement testing protocols and biosecurity measures.

Prior to confirmation, the positive horse attended barrel racing events at the NRS Arena, in Decatur, Texas, on Feb. 15, and Northside Arena, in Fort Worth, Texas, on Feb. 14. The TAHC has been in contact with event management and veterinarians to ensure enhanced biosecurity measures are taken on the premises and event participants are notified.

Owners of horses potentially exposed are encouraged to take precautions. Exposed horses should be isolated and have their temperatures monitored twice daily for at least 14 days after the last known exposure. If an exposed horse develops a fever or other signs consistent with EHM or EHV-1, a veterinarian should perform diagnostic testing. Owners should work with their veterinarian to establish appropriate monitoring and diagnostic plans for any potentially exposed horses