Maryland EHV-1 case ends in euthanasia at boarding facility

A 19-year-old Thoroughbred gelding at a boarding facility in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 on March 9 and was later euthanized, according to an EDCC Health Watch report published by Equus Magazine. One additional horse is suspected positive, and 29 horses were identified as exposed. The report comes as Maryland continues to manage equine herpesvirus risk after a broader multi-state EHV-1 outbreak earlier this year. (equusmagazine.com)

Why it matters: For equine veterinarians, this is a reminder that EHV-1 remains an active surveillance and biosecurity issue even after formal travel restrictions ease. Maryland lifted its temporary intrastate CVI requirement on February 1, 2026, and reinstated electronic CVIs, but the state still emphasizes movement oversight, valid Coggins documentation for in-state event travel, and close attention to changing interstate entry rules. Federal and AAEP guidance also continues to stress that currently licensed vaccines may help reduce shedding in some settings, but they are not considered protective against the neurologic form, making rapid isolation, temperature monitoring, testing, and strict biosecurity central to case management. (mda.maryland.gov)

What to watch: Watch for confirmation of the suspected second case, any expansion of quarantine or exposure counts, and whether Maryland animal health officials issue additional movement or biosecurity guidance. (equusmagazine.com)