The Brackenridge Main Event Center has ceased equine activity at the facility in the wake of an outbreak of a potentially deadly virus in central Texas and across the state.
Equine Herpesvirus 1 can cause symptoms like fever, coughing, nasal discharge, and in mares, miscarriage and birth defects. Its most dangerous form can cause neurological symptoms and death. EHV-1 has claimed the life of at least one horse in Texas in the past week.
The Lavaca Navidad River Authority said in a post on the Brackedridge Main Event Center Facebook page that some horses that attended an event at the facility may have been exposed to the disease at a precious event in Waco.
“The health and safety of the equine community remain our highest priority,” they said. “In response to this situation, our team has implemented enhanced biosecurity measures throughout the facility, including increased sanitation protocols, heightened monitoring, as well as a pause on all horse traffic to our facility.”
The organization cautioned horse owners to monitor their animals for symptoms and enhance biosecurity measures as needed, and contact their veterinarians with any concerns.
“Together, through shared responsibility and precaution, we can help reduce the risk of transmission and support the health of our equine partners,” the post continued. “Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to keeping our horses safe.”
