USDA FAQ's and resources about coronavirus (COVID-19). LEARN MORE
Equine Viral Arteritis (EVA) is a contagious viral disease in horses caused by Equine Arteritis Virus (EAV). Infection can go undetected by horse owners/breeders and in herds that were previously unexposed (naïve) abortion rates in pregnant mares can reach up to 70%. Most horses infected with EAV will show minimal if any clinical signs and recover without incident although stallions can become carriers and lifelong shedders of the virus. There is a vaccine available that has been shown to prevent infection with EAV. Vaccination should be performed at least 21 days prior to the start of breeding season to provide adequate levels of immunity. EVA has not been shown to be zoonotic.
Many infections are non-clinical. Older, very young or immunocompromised horses may show more severe clinical signs which can include:
EVA is spread by acutely infected horses through respiratory secretions in close contact settings (racetracks, shows, sales, etc.). The virus is also transmitted through breeding (natural service or artificial insemination). Infected stallions shed the virus in semen and can serve as long term carriers. Fomites (equipment such as buckets, brushes, shoes and humans) are another source for viral spread.
Treatment is symptomatic focused on reducing swelling and inflammation and removal of edema in patients with severe clinical signs. Rest and adequate nursing care aids in resolving most cases.
Be familiar with whether EVA is a reportable disease in your state and report findings accordingly.