The Maryland State Veterinarian’s office has lifted its 30-day quarantine of Days End Farm Horse Rescue in Howard County. There have been no new cases of Equine Herpes Virus-1 (EHV-1) since April 19, when two horses stabled at that farm tested positive for the non-neuropathogenic strain of the virus. There have been no other reports of the disease in Maryland.
The farm’s attending veterinarian and animal health inspectors from the Maryland Department of Agriculture closely monitored all horses on the farm and found no new cases of the virus. The quarantined farm also took additional measures to prevent the spread of EHV-1 by enacting strict biosecurity protocols, helping to ensure that no visitors or vendors carry the disease onto other farms.
“We believe the virus has been contained, and there is no longer a need to keep the affected farm under quarantine,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Michael Radebaugh. “There have been no additional reports of EHV-1 in Maryland. Horse owners are safe to move their animals freely throughout the state.”
Although the cancellation of some events around the state led to a heightened level of concern, these were precautionary measures taken by the event organizers, and not required by MDA. Numerous events and races continued to operate without any problems, and Maryland is full steam ahead for Black-Eyed Susan Day and the Preakness.
Though the virus appears to be contained, the department reminds all horse owners to remain vigilant in protecting the health of their animals. If a horse displays symptoms of EHV-1, veterinarians should call the department’s Animal Health program at 410-841-5810 or 410-841-5971 (after hours). EHV-1 is a reportable disease in Maryland
