Highly contagious horse herpes appears to have been successfully corralled, according to the Colorado State Veterinarians Office.
The potentially deadly illness peaked in May. No new or suspected cases have been reported since May 20, officials said.
“This is great news for Colorado’s horse industry,” said state veterinarian Keith Roehr in a statement.
The illnesses infected nine horses in Colorado, brought quarantines or “holds” to horse facilities in eight counties and caused the cancellation or postponement of scores of rodeos, sales and shows across the West.
“It’s had a bite, but how bad depended on where you are,” said Marvin Witt, vice president of operations for the National Western Stock Show.
The virus hit during a window between events at the National Western Complex, he said.
The livestock industry, which transports animals from show to show and state to state, is constantly aware of contagious illnesses. Witt said authorities recently found highly contagious, usually fatal bovine tuberculosis in a steer at a Pinal County, Ariz., rodeo. Unlike horse herpes, the illness can be passed to humans and other livestock species.
“It’s part of the industry,” Witt said of animal illnesses. “People have to be aware of it and act appropriately any time they travel with animals.”
Most of Colorado’s infected animals attended a National Cutting Horse Association event from April 30 to May 8 in Ogden, Utah, where the outbreak originated.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported 90 confirmed cases in 10 Western states. Of those, 54 animals attended the Utah event. Thirteen horses were euthanized, including two in Colorado.
Requirements imposed in Colorado in response to the outbreak will remain in effect.
Anyone bringing a horse to the state must have it inspected by their home veterinarian, who must then contact the Colorado State Veterinarians Office for a permit number.
Roehr said the relatively quick resolution was the result of cooperation of those in the horse industry, including veterinarians and show planners.
“Without the proactive collaboration of all involved, this disease could have had an even greater negative impact on Colorado’s horse industry,” he said.
Joey Bunch: 303-954-1174 or jbunch@denverpost.com
