EHV-1 spread shows need for better reporting, biosecurity

Nov 24, 2025
Nov 24, 2025

Horse with EHM — The first horse in South Dakota to develop EHM that was exposed to EHV-1 in Waco, Texas, fights for her life. Photo and story shared with owner permission.
Submitted photo

Lainie Kringen-Scholtz

Tri-State Neighbor Columnist

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Lainie Kringen-Scholtz

The equine community is shaken. After the Women’s Pro Rodeo Association (WPRA) World Finals in Waco, Texas from Nov. 5-9, several horses have contracted Equine Herpesvirus 1 (EHV-1) that has mutated into Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy (EHM). Here is what we know as of Nov. 23.

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Lainie Kringen-Scholtz, DVM, is veterinarian and owner of True North Veterinary Health in Wentworth, S.D. Reach her at truenorthveterinaryhealth@gmail.com or PO Box 117, Wentworth, SD 57075.