Virus outbreak halts Euro action

A NIGHTMARE scenario has descended on equestrian sport with a major outbreak of the highly contagious equine virus EHV-1. On Monday, the international equestrian federation (FEI) cancelled international events in 10 European countries until March 28 after a very aggressive strain of the neurological form of the virus, which originated in Valencia, Spain, led to outbreaks in other European countries.

All national and international shows have been cancelled in France, the Mediterranean Tour in Oliva Nova, Spain has ground to a halt and next week’s Dutch Masters at ’s-Hertogenbosch, which was due to stage a much-anticipated Dressage World Cup qualifier along with the world-famous Rolex Grand Prix, was called off yesterday. Some ongoing events can continue but horses cannot leave the venues without an official health certificate.

EHV-1 is an airborne disease that can be transmitted up to five metres by a coughing horse and also through direct contact with people and shared equipment. It can cause respiratory and neurological symptoms, abortion in pregnant mares and the death of young foals.

On Monday, FEI reported that four horses had died, 84 at the Valencia showgrounds were showing clinical signs and being treated, and 11 had been taken to Valencia and Barcelona for treatment. Horse Sport Ireland has advised all stakeholders “to be vigilant with regard to movement of horses to/ from the Continent.”