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State traces equine herpes (EHM) cluster to Texas show; 24 Minnesota horses quarantined
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Summary
State equine‑health staff reported a multi‑state EHV‑1/EHM cluster traced to a Waco, Texas event; Minnesota has 15 premises and 24 exposed horses under 21‑day quarantine and one clinically ill horse that tested negative.
State equine‑health officials briefed the board on a neuropathogenic equine herpesvirus (EHV‑1/EHM) cluster tied to a Waco, Texas show and subsequent events. Officials said the outbreak's early cases were traced to the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association event in Waco; subsequent illnesses emerged at other barrel and futurity shows that followed.
Nationally, officials reported 37 EHM‑positive horses across seven states as of Dec. 1. Minnesota follow‑up identified 15 exposed premises with 24 horses under a 21‑day quarantine; one Minnesota horse developed clinical signs but tested negative. Officials said exposed animals are being monitored and that quarantines and movement restrictions remain in place.
The state recommended heightened biosecurity at events and noted that some shows and auctions have been canceled or postponed voluntarily. Officials pointed to updated guidance—the US EHV‑1 control plan released in 2025—as a reference for event organizers and participants.
"This current outbreak started at a show in Waco, Texas," an equine‑health official said, and board staff emphasized the importance of quarantine and monitoring for exposed animals. Several board members said horse‑industry stakeholders have been cooperative and that owners are largely complying with recommended monitoring.
