Hunt suspended after EHV-1 outbreak
After an outbreak of the equine herpes virus (EHV-1), the Heythrop has suspended hunting for a week. Vet Tom Campbell of the Bourton Vale Equine Clinic, which has been dealing with the outbreak said it was contained to one yard where members of the Heythrop keep their horses.
Three horses have so far tested positive for EHV-1, and others are reportedly showing signs of the virus. Of the three, two have been diagnosed with the neurological type, which can cause paralysis, and the third has tested positive for the respiratory version of the virus. Horses on another yard have also been tested but it is thought to be unlikely they have EHV-1.
Horse owners in the Moreton-in-the-Marsh area of Gloucestershire have been advised to be vigilant and watch out for signs of the virus, which include coughing, a raised temperature, dullness and the horse appearing wobbly. Anyone who hunted with the Heythrop in the last week of January is also advised to isolate their horse and call a vet if they suspect infection.
Reporting on the current status Mr Campbell said: "We have it well under control. We suspended hunting as a precaution but the Heythrop will be able to hunt again this weekend (9 February). It is running its course on the yard and the horses are responding well to treatment. The question now is where these horses caught it - we will know more by the middle of the week."
Speaking of the increase in reported cases of both EHV-1 and EHV-4, the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) has recommended that owners and riders consider taking advice from a vet regarding vaccination. EHV-1 brought hunting in part of the south west to a standstill in November, and three horses were euthanised on racecourse trainer Victor Dartnell's yard in Devon.
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
