The number of horses confirmed with a fatal horse virus continues to rise in Colorado. The Colorado Department of Agriculture said yesterday there are now eight confirmed cases of equine herpes virus, including two horses that had to be euthanized. There are also 22 suspected cases and 10 quarantine orders issued in six counties. Colorado State Fair organizers have voluntarily canceled three horse events to limit the number of horses traveling to the fairgrounds in Pueblo. The Routt County Fairgrounds has also banned horses at their facilities for at least another week. The disease has been traced to horses at the Western National Cutting Horse Finals in Ogden, Utah, earlier this month. Horse owners who want to transport their animals are being advised to call their veterinarian. The veterinarian will have to request a permit number for the horse's health certificate, already required for entry.
In horsemanship industry, equine herpesvirus is one of the most notable viruses. The equine respiratory system is one of the most accessible body systems in viruses so we must be cautious.
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