By Blake Jackson
Researchers at the University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment have identified air sampling as a potential new tool for monitoring equine herpesviruses at large horse events.
The findings were published in the Equine Veterinary Journal following a study conducted at eight international equestrian competitions in Spain and the United States.
The research focused on detecting equine herpesvirus (EHV)-1 and EHV-4, both of which can spread rapidly among horses during competitions and after they return home. Over a 10-month period, scientists collected 37 air samples and 205 surface samples from temporary stabling areas.
“EHV-1 remains a major concern across the horse industry,” said study author Lutz Goehring, professor at the UK Gluck Equine Research Center and holder of the Warren Wright, Sr. - Lucille Wright Markey Professorship.
“The virus can cause respiratory disease, abortion and equine herpesvirus-associated myeloencephalopathy, a neurologic condition that can leave horses unable to stand.”
The study was funded by the International Equestrian Federation following the 2021 EHV outbreak in Valencia, Spain. Researchers explored whether air sampling could serve as an alternative to repeated nasal swab testing.
“Our goal was to find out whether there are other options besides daily nasal swab sampling,” Goehring said. “Air sampling gives you a way to look at a group environment without going horse to horse.”
Results showed EHV-1 was detected in 20 of 28 air samples in Spain, all three samples collected in Florida, and three of six samples gathered in Kentucky. EHV-4 was also found in several locations, although detection rates differed by region.
Researchers noted that the study does not determine how far the virus can travel or whether detected viral DNA could cause infection. However, findings suggest viral material may exist in barns even when horses show no visible symptoms.
“There’s no reason to panic, but we need to take this information and find better ways to make sure horses are safe at these events,” Goehring said.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-somogyvari
Categories: Kentucky, Education, Livestock