Everything Horses and Livestock® Magazine August 2020 Vol 5 Issue 3

Everything Horses and Livestock Magazine ®

Horses And Other Livestock Now Have Their Own Contagious Virus To Contend By Frank J. Buchman Like much of the world health and political issues, VSV in horses is a seemingly hourly changing dilemma. Vesicular stomatitis virus already recognized by horse owners and much of the population as VSV is spreading throughout the Midwest. Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) Division of Animal Health officials at Manhattan said VSV was confirmed in Butler County June 16. “This outbreak is still very active with testing continuing in several Kansas counties,” explained Dr. Justin Smith, animal health commissioner. Serious concerns about VSV have caused cancelation of a number of horse activities throughout the state. “Several livestock event officials are requiring VSV testing before participating in shows,” Smith said. “We encourage all owners of horses and other livestock to continue to be vigilant. “Monitor your animals for VSV symptoms and communicate with your veterinarian if you see anything of concern,” Smith emphasized. “The most effective way to slow the virus spread is limiting exposure to insects that are the primary source of infection.” By definition, VSV is a viral disease which primarily affects horses. “But it can also infect cattle, sheep, goats, swine, llamas and other animals,” Smith clarified. “All confirmed cases of VSV in Kansas now are horses. “However, some cattle have shown clinical signs while confirmatory laboratory results are pending,” Smith pointed out. All premises with confirmed cases of VSV in horses have been quarantined. “In addition, any premises with animals showing clinical signs consistent with VSV are placed on quarantine,” Smith verified. Quarantine for VSV lasts for at least 14 days from the onset of symptoms on the last animal on the premises. “Quarantines are not lifted until a veterinarian has examined all susceptible animals at that location,” Smith said. In horses, VSV is typically characterized by crusting scabs on the muzzle, lips, ears, coronary bands, or ventral abdomen. Other disease signs include fever and blister-like lesions in the mouth, tongue, lips, nostrils, ears, hooves and teats. “Infected animals will be painful and may refuse to eat and drink, which can lead to weight loss,” Smith explained.

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