Equine Herpesvirus (EHV) is a highly contagious viral infection causing respiratory disease, neurological disorders and even abortions

Equine Herpesvirus

This disease is life-threatening and should be treated by a veterinarian swiftly.

Equine Herpes Virus (EHV) is a highly contagious airborne disease and occurs in horses worldwide. The most common strains are EHV-1 and EHV-4. EHV can cause respiratory and neurological diseases in horses of any age and breed. For pregnant mares there is a risk of abortion.

Symptoms

  • Lethargic
  • Poor limb coordination
  • Recumbeny
  • Balance issues
  • Nostrils discharge
  • Coughing
  • Low Appetite
  • Depression
  • Decreased performance
  • Fever
  • No passing
  • No Passing

Common in

  • Abortion (pregnant mares)

Treatment

The disease itself is not treatable. In case of an infection with EHV a symptomatic treatment will be performed.

Prevention

Since EHV is highly contagious in case of a potential outbreak horses must be quickly isolated and good hygiene measures should be put in place. A Vaccination against EHV is available and especially recommended for horses under the age of five. For showing horses the vaccination is mandatory.

How Happie can help you manage your horse's health

Digital health management offers numerous benefits in modern equine healthcare.

With the Happie Horse App, you can track symptom patterns and body values, such as Temperature, Pulse and Respiration. Allowing you to notice abnormal changes in body and behaviour early on, leading to more successful treatments.

The Happie symptom checker allows you to add all of your horse's abnormal symptoms in order to present potential causes and diseases.

Google Play
App Store

Related articles

Ringworm in horses is a contagious fungal infection causing circular, hairless patches on the skin, often accompanied by itching and inflammation.
Skin and Coat

Ringworm in Horses

Ringworm in Horses Seek veterinary advice before applying any treatment. Ringworm is a highly contagious fungal infection, which can not

West Nile Virus in horses is a mosquito-borne disease causing neurological symptoms such as fever, ataxia, and muscle weakness.
Parasites & Insects

West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus This disease is life-threatening and should be treated by a veterinarian swiftly. West Nile Virus is a

Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is a serious bacterial infection causing muscle stiffness and spasms, potentially fatal to horses.
Viral & Infectious

Tetanus (Lockjaw) in Horses

Tetanus (Lockjaw) in Horses This disease is life-threatening and should be treated by a veterinarian swiftly. Tetanus, commonly referred to