Prevalence of latent, neuropathogenic equine herpesvirus-1 in the Thoroughbred broodmare population of central Kentucky.
Authors: Allen G P, Bolin D C, Bryant U, Carter C N, Giles R C, Harrison L R, Hong C B, Jackson C B, Poonacha K, Wharton R, Williams N M
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Latent EHV-1 in Kentucky Broodmares The emergence of a highly neuropathogenic strain of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) capable of causing fatal myeloencephalopathy in congregated horse populations has raised significant concerns about silent carriers within the breeding stock; this study investigated how prevalent latent infection with this mutant virus is amongst Thoroughbred broodmares in central Kentucky's major racing region. Researchers employed diagnostic techniques to identify latent EHV-1 carriage in the broodmare population, providing epidemiological data on how widely this neurologically-damaging strain circulates asymptomatically. The findings reveal that a substantial proportion of broodmares harbour latent neuropathogenic EHV-1, establishing that these animals represent a considerable reservoir for potential viral shedding and transmission to other horses, particularly during stress-induced reactivation. For practitioners managing Thoroughbreds—whether through breeding programmes, competition, or rehabilitation—this data underscores the biosecurity risk posed by broodmares entering new facilities and highlights the need for strategic management protocols around pregnant mares and young stock to prevent outbreaks of neurological disease. Understanding the true prevalence of latent carriers is essential for developing evidence-based quarantine procedures and informing decisions about testing and vaccination strategies in performance and breeding operations.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Broodmare populations may represent a significant reservoir for neuropathogenic EHV-1 mutants; screening protocols should be considered for breeding programs
- •Enhanced awareness needed regarding the distinction between latent carriage and clinical myeloencephalopathy in managing herd health
- •Biosecurity measures in breeding facilities and large stabling operations should account for potential shedding from latently infected carriers
Key Findings
- •Study investigates prevalence of latent neuropathogenic EHV-1 mutant strains in Thoroughbred broodmare population of central Kentucky
- •EHV-1 isolates from recent neurological outbreaks represent a mutant virus strain with enhanced neuropathogenicity
- •Research addresses critical gap in understanding latency carriage rates for neuropathogenic EHV-1 mutants in USA horse populations