Equine Herpes outbreak detected in Nova Scotia
Four horses display signs of neurological deterioration
EHM is highly transmittable.
Several cases of the potentially fatal and highly contagious Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy (EHM) virus have been reported in Nova Scotia.
According to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), the infection can cause respiratory disease, abortion, and neonatal death. Although the disease only affects horses, it can be transmitted to horses through human contact.
Global News reports one confirmed case of EHM in the province. A further three cases are presumed positive. Tests of the four horses have revealed severe signs of neurological deterioration.
Mature horses can develop some immunity to the EHM virus through repeated exposure. However, CFIA warns such exposure cannot protect horses from variations of the disease that cause abortion or neurological failure.
Equestrian events across the province have also been cancelled to limit the spread of disease
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