ANNAPOLIS, MD (April 16, 2024) ~ Annapolis, MD - The Maryland Department of Agriculture has confirmed that a horse at Laurel Park Racetrack in Anne Arundel County has tested positive for Equine Herpesvirus (EHV-1). The positive test was reported on April 15, 2024. The affected horse is currently under quarantine at the racetrack and is expected to make a full recovery.

Following the confirmation of the positive test, the department has placed a hold order on the barn where the horse was located. This means that no horses are allowed to enter or leave the premises until all exposed horses have been cleared for release. The index horse had previously been housed in an isolated barn with 104 other horses.

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The veterinary practitioner and stable are closely monitoring all horses on the farm and providing follow-up care as needed. Officials are actively investigating possible links to the positive EHV-1 case.

Horse owners are advised to keep a close eye on their animals and contact their private veterinarians if they notice any significant temperature elevations or neurologic signs. It is mandatory for veterinarians to report any cases of equine neurologic syndrome to the department by calling (410) 841-5810.

The Maryland Department of Agriculture is working diligently to contain and prevent any further spread of EHV-1 among horses in the state. Horse owners and industry professionals are urged to follow all recommended biosecurity measures to protect their animals from this highly contagious virus.

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