Source:  News Release

Florida EHV-1 Update:
HITS Ocala Showgrounds Quarantined

OCALA, FL - HITS, in cooperation with the Florida Department of Agriculture, has voluntarily quarantined the HITS Ocala horse show grounds as a result of newly confirmed EHV-1 cases in Florida. The quarantine is in effect pending official test and research results from state veterinarians. No new cases have been confirmed on the HITS Ocala property since the index case was moved to the University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine on February 20, 2013.

Five additional horses that are linked to the HITS Show in Ocala and one horse not believed to be linked with any of the HITS-associated quarantined premises have tested positive for EHV-1 wild type.

The Division of Animal Industry is continuing their disease investigation and developing protocols for surveillance and quarantine release measures. An Incident Command Team comprised of state and federal personnel is being mobilized to implement appropriate control measures. At the suggestion of the Department of Agriculture, all classes at HITS Ocala will continue as scheduled during the quarantine, in order to provide a less-stressful alternative to stall confinement.

Recommendations for horses that have shown at HITS since February 5, 2013 include close monitoring of animals, reporting of fevers greater than 101.5 and strict bio-security measures for at least 21 days after departure from HITS.

Additional movement requirements or restrictions have not been imposed by Florida or any other states at this time. Horse owners and trainers are advised to contact the venue of destination for any additional requirements prior to travel.

Prudent bio-security measures are demanded and HITS management will continue to work with the Florida Department of Agriculture, trainers, and veterinarians to ensure proper safeguards are taken to prevent further spread of the disease.

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