Waco, Texas, November 24, 2025
A horse in Montgomery County, Texas, has been euthanized after testing positive for EHM, part of a growing EHV-1 outbreak related to a recent Waco event. The outbreak has affected multiple states and prompted biosecurity measures as horse owners are advised to monitor their animals closely.
Texas Horse Euthanized Amid EHV-1 Outbreak Linked to Waco Event
A growing equine herpesvirus outbreak prompts biosecurity measures across regions.
Waco, Texas – A horse in Montgomery County has been euthanized after testing positive for equine herpes myeloencephalopathy (EHM), the neurological form of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). This case falls within a rising outbreak associated with the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) World Finals and Elite Barrel Race held in Waco from November 5 to 9, 2025. As of November 23, 2025, the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) has confirmed 27 EHV-1 cases related to the event, affecting multiple states including Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Colorado, New Mexico, Washington, and Arizona.
The outbreak began at the WPRA event, which hosted hundreds of performance horses. Notably, at least one horse was shedding the neurologic strain of EHV-1 while appearing healthy, highlighting the challenges of monitoring animal health. By November 18, the first EHM case was confirmed, leading to serious neurological symptoms and unfortunate fatalities.
Impact on Texas
The outbreak has created substantial disruptions in Texas. For example, the Fort Worth Herd has temporarily paused its twice-daily cattle drive starting November 20, 2025, as a precaution, with plans to resume after November 28. Local officials have emphasized that this decision was made out of an “abundance of caution,” as no EHV-1 cases have been reported among their longhorns.
Transmission and Symptoms
EHV-1 is transmitted through direct horse-to-horse contact, aerosolized droplets, and contaminated equipment or environments. Horse owners should remain vigilant for symptoms such as fever, nasal discharge, coughing, depression, lethargy, stumbling, incoordination, hind-limb weakness, and abortions in pregnant mares.
Recommendations for Horse Owners
Given the rising concerns, horse owners are strongly advised to monitor their animals closely, particularly if they attended the WPRA event or had contact with horses from the event. Exposed horses should be isolated for at least 14 days or until evaluated by a veterinarian. Owners are further encouraged to refrain from hauling or showing horses that may have been exposed and to disinfect trailers, tack, grooming tools, and other shared equipment.
Additional Measures
In response to the situation, the Oregon Department of Agriculture has enacted temporary rules aimed at preventing the spread of EHV/EHM. These measures include enhanced safeguards for horses entering the state or participating in high-risk events. Though Oregon currently has no confirmed cases, the department is working closely with affected states to quarantine any horses that have returned after exposure to events in Texas and Oklahoma.
Conclusion
The EHV-1 outbreak in Texas underscores the necessity for strict monitoring and biosecurity measures to protect the equine community. Horse owners are encouraged to stay informed, collaborate with local veterinarians, and implement proactive measures to mitigate the virus’s spread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is equine herpes myeloencephalopathy (EHM)?
EHM is the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), a contagious virus affecting horses. It can cause severe neurological symptoms and, in some cases, death.
How does EHV-1 spread?
EHV-1 spreads through direct horse-to-horse contact, aerosolized droplets, and contaminated equipment or environments.
What are the symptoms of EHM?
Symptoms include fever, nasal discharge, coughing, depression, lethargy, stumbling, incoordination, hind-limb weakness, and abortions in pregnant mares.
What should horse owners do if they suspect exposure to EHM?
Horse owners should isolate exposed horses for at least 14 days or until evaluated by a veterinarian, avoid hauling or showing exposed horses, and disinfect trailers, tack, grooming tools, and other shared equipment.
Are other animals affected by EHV-1?
Equids such as horses, donkeys, and zebras are the natural hosts for EHV-1. Non-equid exotic wildlife species, such as antelope, gazelles, axis deer, and fallow deer, are not known to be at risk.
Key Features of the EHV-1 Outbreak in Texas
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Waco, Texas |
| Event | Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) World Finals and Elite Barrel Race |
| Dates | November 5–9, 2025 |
| Confirmed EHV-1 Cases | 27 cases across multiple states, including Texas |
| Impact in Texas | At least one horse euthanized; Fort Worth Herd paused cattle drive as a precaution |
| Transmission | Direct horse-to-horse contact, aerosolized droplets, contaminated equipment |
| Symptoms | Fever, nasal discharge, coughing, depression, stumbling, incoordination, hind-limb weakness, abortions in pregnant mares |
| Recommendations for Horse Owners | Monitor horses closely, isolate exposed animals, avoid hauling or showing exposed horses, disinfect shared equipment |
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Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
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