Equine viral rhinopneumonitis (EVR) produces an acute respiratory catarrh, which is an inflammation of the mucus membranes with free nasal discharge. The Type I strain of EVR is the most common virus found in horses.
Agent
Virus
Route
Direct or indirect contact with virus-laden nasal discharge, aborted fetus, or placenta
Symptoms
- Congestion and clear nasal discharge
- Mild to severe ataxia or paresis (slight or incomplete paralysis) of hind quarters
- Fever for two to three days
- Cough
- Abortion after three to 12 weeks of exposure and most commonly in the eighth to 11th month of gestation
- Mutated form of paralytic type may be fatal
Treatment
Isolate infected horses and initiate good sanitary and hygiene management
Prevention
Annual vaccinations and good sanitary practices
For more information, see Equine Viral Rhinopneumonitis in Horses.
