WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. – The Navajo Nation is monitoring a multistate Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) and Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy (EHM) outbreak linked to the 2025 PRA World Finals in Waco, Texas (held Nov. 5-9, and the Barrel Futurities of America event in Guthrie, OK (held Nov. 17–18).
Horses from these events were exposed, and positive cases were confirmed on November 18. Many horses from New Mexico, Utah, Colorado, and Arizona were in attendance, and one confirmed case has now been reported in Doña Ana County, NM.
Because quarantines were not enforced at the event sites, the Navajo Nation urges horse owners to exercise caution. The Nation will follow the Arizona State Veterinarian’s temporary movement restrictions, which include:
- Shortened ICVI (Interstate Certificate of Veterinary Inspection) validity to 5 days
- Additional health statements required for transported horses
- A 30-day pause on Extended Equine Certificates of Veterinary Inspection
EHV-1 spreads easily through direct contact, aerosolized droplets, shared tack, trailers, stalls, and contaminated clothing. Signs of possible EHM may include lethargy, nasal discharge, limb swelling, lack of coordination, hind-end weakness, urine dribbling, diminished tail tone, head tilt, or abortion in pregnant mares. These signs are not exclusive to EHM—testing by a veterinarian is required.
Prevention Tips:
- Wash hands and sanitize before and after handling horses.
- Disinfect clothing, footwear, tack, buckets, grooming tools, stalls, and trailers.
- Use a 1:10 bleach solution or approved disinfectants after removing organic material.
- Avoid traveling between barns or facilities.
- Keep vaccinations current for horses not exposed.
If you suspect exposure or notice a fever above 102.5°F, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Local Contacts:
- Animal Haven Clinic: 505-325-8829
- Farmington Vet Clinic: 505-325-7462
- Aspen Vet Clinic: 928-526-2423
- Airport Animal Clinic: 505-287-2763
- Dr. Kamper: 928-699-1338
- Dr. Adrienne Ruby: 928-521-6241
- Dr. Abby Reidhead: 928-524-9928
- Cedar Ridge Vet Hospital: 928-536-4153
- Rez Solutions (NN): 928-730-8262
- Desert View Mobile Vet: 928-283-6184