Equine herpes myeloencephalopathy (EHM) has been confirmed in Elgin County, Ontario. On October 28, 2024, a 4 year old Standardbred mare developed acute neurologic signs. The horse is responding well to treatment. EHM was confirmed on October 29, 2024. Two additional horses were exposed. The facility owner has voluntarily stopped animal movements and is working with their veterinarian to implement biosecurity protocols.
Equine herpesvirus 1 (EHV-1) infection is immediately notifiable by laboratories to the Office of the Chief Veterinarian for Ontario under the Animal Health Act, 2009. Attending veterinarians concerned about potential cases of EHV-1 infection may contact an OMAFRA veterinarian through the Agricultural Information Contact Centre at 1-877-424-1300.