HITS Inc. reported today, Feb. 25, that no new cases of EHV-1 have been detected at HITS Ocala. The infected horse that was competing at the show last week continues to do very well at the University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine in Gainesville. The horse was diagnosed with the wild-type strain of the EHV-1 virus.

One tent at HITS Ocala remains under quarantine, and all horses stabled in that tent remain in excellent health with no symptoms whatsoever. Exhibitors are urged to continue to be diligent in abiding by bio-security measures, including a consistent dailytemperature-check schedule. There are no restrictions on horses coming or going from the show grounds or over Florida state borders.

The University of Florida Large Animal Veterinary Hospital released a statement on the horse undergoing treatment, saying “With the full support of his owners, the index case is responding well to aggressive treatment and is stable at this time.” The University also posted a Q&A about EHV-1. 

Classic Company’s Gulfport Winter Classic (Miss.) series also announced today: “With the guidance and support of the Mississippi State Veterinarian, who has been in contact with the State Veterinarian of Florida, we are lifting our ban on horses from Florida coming to compete in Gulfport if the horses meet criteria set forth by the State Veterinarians. We will continue our protocol of checking health certificates and the programs we started on Friday at our entrance.”