Maryland reports fatal EHV-1 case in Anne Arundel County

Maryland officials and the Equine Disease Communication Center are reporting a fatal EHV-1 case in Anne Arundel County after a 19-year-old Thoroughbred gelding at a boarding facility tested positive on March 9 and was euthanized. One additional horse is suspected positive, and 29 horses were identified as exposed. The case comes after Maryland had already tightened equine movement requirements during a broader multi-state EHV-1 outbreak, although the state lifted its temporary intrastate CVI requirement effective February 1, 2026. (equusmagazine.com)

Why it matters: For equine veterinarians, this is a reminder that EHV-1 pressure in Maryland hasn't fully faded even as emergency travel restrictions have eased. EHV-1 can present first as fever, can spread through direct horse contact and contaminated equipment, and can progress to neurologic disease, which makes early isolation, temperature monitoring, and clear client communication especially important in boarding and multi-horse settings. AAEP guidance and USDA disease information both emphasize twice-daily temperature checks for exposed horses and strict biosecurity during investigations. (equusmagazine.com)

What to watch: Watch for any confirmation of the suspected second case, additional exposed premises, or renewed movement guidance from Maryland animal health officials. (equusmagazine.com)