Columbus, OH – The U.S. Trotting Association would like to update our members on the nationwide increase in Equine Herpesvirus (EHV) cases being reported by state veterinarians and animal health officials across the country.
While these cases are appearing in several regions, we want to be clear up front: we are monitoring this closely and there is currently no indication that Standardbreds or any harness racing operations are involved.
“Even though none of the current EHV activity involves Standardbreds, it’s a good moment for all of us to pause and check our routines” advises USTA Chief Operating Officer & Director of Registry TC Lane. “Biosecurity isn’t about panic, it’s about professionalism. When we stay sharp with the basics, we keep our horses healthy and our industry running smoothly. This is really just a reminder to stay aware and take care.”
That’s good news—and it’s important news—but it’s not the whole story.
Even when the issue doesn’t touch our breed, outbreaks like this serve as a reminder that disease prevention is an everyday responsibility, not something we only think about when a crisis is at our door. So we want to share what we know, what it means, and how the Standardbred community can use this moment to tighten up the basics.
What We’re Seeing Nationwide
Across the country, various state animal health agencies have reported EHV cases in pockets of activity. These cases do not appear connected to Standardbreds, and there has been no disruption to racing, training, or transport within our sector.
Still, when any equine disease is in the news, from any breed or discipline, it naturally raises questions. And that’s why we want our members to hear directly from us.
Why This Matters Even When It Doesn’t Affect Us
EHV is one of those diseases that spreads efficiently under the right circumstances. Different barns, training centers, and disciplines often overlap at shared facilities, sales, or haulers. That’s why moments like this are valuable reminders to revisit the fundamentals—not out of alarm, but out of professionalism.
A Few Biosecurity Basics That Always Make a Difference
Think of these as the small, everyday habits that keep our horses safe:
- Quarantine new or returning horses before turning them out with the main barn.
- Clean and disinfect equipment regularly, especially items that move between stalls or trailers.
- Don’t share water or feed buckets—it’s one of the simplest ways to avoid problems.
- Keep an eye on temperatures, especially for horses that are traveling.
- Call your vet early if something doesn’t look or feel right.
These aren’t complicated steps—but when done consistently, they protect entire barns and training centers.
The USTA Will Keep the Updates Coming
As always, the USTA will keep the lines of communication open. If anything changes or if the situation becomes relevant to Standardbred racing, you’ll hear it from us quickly and clearly. In the meantime, we encourage everyone to stay informed, stay consistent with prevention practices, and reach out if you have questions.
Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC)
The mission of the Equine Disease Communication Center is to improve the health and welfare of horses by communicating real time alerts and information to help prevent and mitigate equine infectious diseases.
The most up-to-date information on equine disease outbreaks in the U.S. and Canada is available on the EDCC website where you can sign up (bottom of the page) to receive email alerts when a disease outbreak is reported.
To view the latest list of equine disease outbreaks click here.