Prairie Meadows Sets EHV-1 Policy
Description:
Prairie Meadows Racetrack has adopted a policy for equine herpesvirus that will be in effect for the 2016 Thoroughbred racing season at the Altoona, Iowa track.
The EHV-1 policy applies to all horses shipping into Prairie Meadows, which opens its backside to horses April 1 and holds its first day of live Thoroughbred racing April 28.
The development and finalization of the EHV-1 policy has grown out of the ecent outbreak of the neurologic strain of the virus at various racetracks and training facilities in the United States.
"It is of paramount importance that we do everything possible to protect the equine population in Iowa and especially at Prairie Meadows," said Dr. John Sweeney, state veterinarian for the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission.
"We have consulted with the Iowa Department of Agriculture state veterinarian, Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine staff, Iowa Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association, and Prairie Meadows management to implement this plan to prevent the spread of the equine herpesvirus in light of the outbreaks occurring across the United States. We must all work together to be successful in this endeavor."
Thoroughbreds that remain stabled on the grounds or ship in/out for workouts during the Quarter Horse meet, which begins Aug. 20, must continue to follow the EHV-1 policy.
The complete EHV-1 policy with details on shipping, documentation, and vaccination requirements, can be accessed here.
Quarter Horses shipping in/out for workouts during the Thoroughbred meet, which runs from April 28 through Aug. 13, will be required to provide proof of a current negative piroplasmosis test and follow the EHV-1 policy.