The Oklahoma Quarter Horse Association and State Fair Park enact strict biosecurity practices after a horse from the BBR World Finals tests positive for equine herpes virus.

The Oklahoma Quarter Horse Association has been informed that a horse from Montgomery County in Texas has tested positive for equine herpes virus (EHV-1 “A” strain or wild-type strain) ahead of the Redbud Spectacular.

This horse recently competed April 26-29 at the Better Barrel Races World Finals at State Fair Park in Oklahoma City, the host site of the OQHA Redbud Spectacular, which is slated for May 31 – June 10. It is reported by The Texas Animal Health Commission that while the risk of exposure to the virus was likely low at this event, owners of horses potentially exposed are encouraged to take precautions.

With the Redbud Spectacular coming up, the Oklahoma State Fair Park is taking this very seriously. In coordination with the State of Oklahoma Veterinary officials, they have enhanced their standard biosecurity procedures that takes place between all equine events at State Fair Park. In an abundance of caution, they are disinfecting not only all stalls and common areas through the entire facility, they are sanitizing brooms, tractors, drags and any tool or piece of equipment used at the facility.

OQHA will remain in contact with Dr. Michael Herrin, the Assistant State of Oklahoma Veterinarian, as well as State Fair Park. We assure you that OQHA takes the safety of your horse very seriously and we will see that all measures will be taken to ensure a healthy environment.

Do you have news to share from your AQHA affiliate? Send it to Tara Matsler at tmatsler@aqha.org.

For equine disease updates, visit the Equine Disease Communication Center.