Tests Results are Negative For Neurologic Equine Herpesvirus on Blood Samples and Nasal Swab
BOWIE, MD. 01-25-08---The Maryland Department of Agriculture has lifted the "Investigational Animal Hold Order" on Barn 7 and the isolated barn on the grandstand side of the Bowie Training Center after follow-up testing on the initial nasal swab samples sent to the University of Kentucky proved negative for the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus (EHV-1).
Blood samples taken on Tuesday morning, after a horse showed signs of the virus, were also negative for EHV-1. Equine herpesvirus-1 (also known as "rhino"), which causes upper respiratory infection, can also cause neurological disease.
“We followed the appropriate procedures and we are obviously relieved with the outcome,” said Maryland Jockey Club president and general manager Chris Dragone. “We are pleased that the system worked and that everybody worked together so well.”
The Department of Agriculture field veterinarian handling the case inspected the barn in question Friday morning and reported no signs of the virus in any of the 18 horses currently stabled in Barn 7 or in the suspected horse. The private veterinarian for trainer Robbie Bailes had been taking temperatures and monitoring all the horses this week and found no abnormalities.
“We were happy with the process,” said Maryland Racing Commission veterinarian Dr. David Zipf. “The trainer was very receptive and cooperative. Because we know the virus is out there and we have learned that most of the outbreaks happen during the winter, we are better prepared than ever to identify the virus and respond quickly.”
-MJC-