Detection of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) in urine samples during outbreaks of equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy.
Authors: Velloso Alvarez Ana, Jose-Cunilleras E, Dorrego-Rodriguez Abel, Santiago-Llorente Isabel, de la Cuesta-Torrado Maria, Troya-Portillo Lucas, Rivera Belen, Vitale Valentina, de Juan Lucia, Cruz-Lopez Fatima
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Editorial Summary: EHV-1 Detection in Urine During Neurological Outbreaks During outbreaks of equine herpesvirus-1 myeloencephalopathy (EHM), identifying all potential routes of viral shedding is critical for effective biosecurity and outbreak control. Whilst nasal swabs and blood samples are routinely screened using real-time PCR, the researchers investigated whether urine represents a significant source of EHV-1 excretion by analysing urine samples collected from affected horses during naturally occurring outbreaks and comparing viral DNA detection patterns with concurrent nasal and blood samples. EHV-1 DNA was successfully detected in urine from multiple animals, with detection patterns and viral loads differing from those observed in nasal and blood samples, suggesting urine represents a distinct and previously unrecognised shedding route during acute neurological disease. For practitioners involved in outbreak management, these findings indicate that urine-contaminated bedding, water troughs, and handling equipment may contribute to viral transmission between horses, necessitating broader environmental decontamination protocols and enhanced personal hygiene measures beyond current standard practices. Further investigation into the infectious potential of urine-shed virus and optimal timing of urinary shedding would help refine biosecurity recommendations during EHM outbreaks, particularly for facilities managing affected animals.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Urine samples can now be used as an additional diagnostic specimen for EHV-1 detection during outbreak investigations, expanding sampling options beyond traditional nasal swabs
- •Recognition that urine is a source of viral excretion suggests infected horses may pose a transmission risk through urine contamination, necessitating enhanced biosecurity protocols in outbreak situations
- •Real-time PCR testing of urine may help identify infected animals earlier or in cases where respiratory/neurological sampling is difficult or inconclusive
Key Findings
- •EHV-1 DNA was detected in urine samples during outbreaks of equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy
- •Real-time PCR successfully identified EHV-1 in urine, expanding the known sites of viral detection beyond nasal swabs, blood, brain, and spinal cord
- •Urine represents a previously unreported route of EHV-1 excretion with potential implications for viral spread during outbreak situations