In early November 2025, there was an outbreak of the contagious disease Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1). It originated from barrel racing events in Waco, Texas, affecting horses across multiple states, causing respiratory issues, abortions, and severe neurological disease. Since it is so highly contagious, this led to strict biosecurity measures, event cancellations, and calls for heightened owner vigilance for fever or neurological signs, highlighting EHV-1’s rapid spread via contaminated surfaces, clothing, and direct contact. There were 60 cases reported in Arizona, Colorado, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, and Washington. None have been reported in Kansas and there hasn’t been a new reported case since December 3, 2025.
What is EHV-1? It is a common and highly contagious viral infection in horses. It causes respiratory disease, abortions in pregnant mares and a neurologic disease Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy (EHM). The most serious form (EHM) is a neurologic manifestation of EHV-1 that inflames blood vessels in the spinal cord and brain. It can cause ataxia (loss of coordination), limb weakness, and may be fatal. The mortality rate due to EHM is estimated to be between 30-50%.
If you think your horse has been exposed these are the symptoms to look for: common early signs such as fever (≥101.5 °F), clear nasal discharge, lethargy or depression and coughing. Neurologic (EHM) signs are incoordination, stumbling, hind-limb weakness or dragging toes, difficulty urinating, lethargy or unusual behavior and trouble standing or paralysis. Symptoms can take up to 21 days after exposure to show themselves. Owners of exposed horses will need to isolate horses, monitor temperatures and thoroughly clean all tack, trailers and equipment.
A good way to avoid exposure is to stay home from horse events, especially those that are out of state, and avoid commingling with horses to prevent further spread of the virus.
If you do plan to go to any horse events in the State of Kansas or out of state, you will need to first check with the show manager or organizer to see what requirements they have and then check with state animal health officials before traveling to out-of-state events. Some states have their own additional requirements, such as recent health papers. Some states require health certificates with-in 5-7 days of the event and not the usual 30 days.
When you do go to a horse event, be cautious and keep your distance from all horses. Do not allow nose-to-nose contact. Do not share buckets or equipment and be sure that your horse is up-to-date on all vaccinations.
Biosecurity and prevention are the ways to stop the spread of EHV-1.