Georgia has had its first confirmed case of EHV-1, a type of equine herpes virus infection that is highly contagious to other horses and causes severe disease. EHV-1 can cause fever, abortion, respiratory disease and neurologic disease. The virus does not affect humans, dogs, cats, etc.; however, alpacas and llamas can be affected.

The Georgia Department of Agriculture is working closely with the University of Georgia Large Animal Veterinary Teaching Hospital to alert and provide recommendations for quarantine procedures and exposure protocols. The Georgia Department of Agriculture is telling equine owners that they should practice appropriate bio-security. The virus can be spread by horse to horse contact and contaminated equipment. Owners should contact their veterinarian if symptoms are present.

For updates and more information about EHV-1, horse owners can visit the Georgia Department of Agriculture website at www.agr.georgia.gov or call GDA’s Animal Health department at 404-656-3667.\