Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1) is one of the most serious infectious diseases affecting horses worldwide—and yet many horse owners don’t fully understand how it works, how it spreads, or why it can be so devastating. In this in-depth video, we break down EHV-1 in horses from a scientific and practical perspective, covering everything from transmission and symptoms to neurological disease and abortion in mares.So what is EHV-1, and why is it such a threat in the equine industry?EHV-1 is a highly contagious equine herpesvirus that can cause respiratory disease, neurological dysfunction (EHM), and reproductive loss. Unlike many other horse diseases, EHV-1 has the ability to establish lifelong latency, meaning once a horse is infected, the virus remains in the body forever. Under stress—such as travel, competition, illness, or environmental changes—the virus can reactivate and begin shedding again, often without obvious symptoms. This is why EHV-1 outbreaks can occur suddenly and spread rapidly through barns, shows, and training facilities.In this video, we explain:How EHV-1 spreads between horses (direct contact and indirect transmission)The role of fomites like tack, buckets, clothing, and human handsEarly EHV-1 symptoms in horses, including fever, nasal discharge, and lethargyThe progression from respiratory infection to systemic diseaseWhat viremia is and how it allows the virus to travel through the bodyHow EHV-1 damages blood vessels and causes neurological diseaseThe signs of equine herpes myeloencephalopathy (EHM), including ataxia, weakness, and paralysisWhy EHV-1 can cause abortion in pregnant mares, often with no warning signsHow the virus persists in the equine population through latency and reactivationWe also cover practical, real-world prevention strategies, including:Biosecurity protocols for horse owners, barns, and competition environmentsHow to reduce the risk of EHV-1 outbreaksThe importance of temperature monitoring and early detectionEffective disinfectants that kill EHV-1Isolation procedures and movement restrictions during outbreaksUnderstanding EHV-1 is essential for anyone involved in horses—whether you’re a dressage rider, breeder, trainer, or recreational owner. With increased awareness and proper biosecurity, the spread of equine herpesvirus can be reduced, helping protect both individual horses and the wider equine community.If you’re interested in horse health, equine science, dressage, and horse welfare, make sure to subscribe for more detailed, research-based content.Chapters (SEO-optimized):