Stay informed on the latest equine virus outbreak updates, biosecurity measures, and prevention tips to protect horse health. Read more for essential details.
The Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) is actively monitoring a significant outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy (EHM). The outbreak originated at the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) World Finals and Elite Barrel Race event, which took place in Waco, Texas, from November 5-9, 2025.
As of today, 42 confirmed cases have been directly linked to this event. The first cases were officially reported on November 18, thirteen days ago. The EDCC estimates that around 1,500 horses were potentially exposed between the WPRA event and the subsequent Barrel Futurities of America (BFA) event in Guthrie, Oklahoma. While 18 other positive cases have been reported throughout North America. This makes a total of 60 cases total (42 tied to the WPRA event and 18 not associated with WPRA).
Current Spread and Case Numbers
Numerous states and parts of Canada are impacted. States with confirmed positive cases include Arizona, Colorado, Louisiana, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin. The Canadian regions of Alberta and Ontario have also reported cases.
To control the spread, health officials are requiring mandatory 21-day quarantines for exposed horses.
Impact on Major Equine Events
The outbreak continues to cause significant disruption to the rodeo and equine competition schedule. On November 21, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) and the WPRA announced the postponement of the National Finals Breakaway Roping. The event was originally scheduled for December 2-3 in Las Vegas. Organizers are currently exploring new dates and venues.
However, the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) is set to continue as scheduled but with stringent health and biosecurity protocols in place. These updated measures include:
- A required Seven-Day Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) and a unique entry permit for all horses.
- Mandatory daily temperature monitoring for all competing horses.
- A strict no-travel advisory for horses participating in the NFR.
- Enhanced check-in and verification procedures at the event venue.
Similar safety protocols will be enforced for the Junior National Finals Rodeo.
Future Outlook
The EDCC expects that more positive cases will be reported over the next several weeks as testing continues and the virus runs its course. The effectiveness of the enhanced biosecurity measures at the NFR will be a critical factor in determining whether the event can avoid becoming a super-spreader. Horse owners and event organizers are urged to remain vigilant and prioritize biosecurity to protect the health of the equine population.
Horse biosecurity is critical for protecting the health and well-being of equine herds, especially during an outbreak of viral infection among nearby horses or within the same facility. Implementing strict biosecurity measures—such as isolating new arrivals, limiting contact with sick horses, disinfecting equipment, and controlling visitor access—reduces the risk of disease transmission. Viral infections can spread rapidly through direct contact, shared tack, water sources, or even airborne particles, putting valuable animals at risk of serious illness or prolonged recovery. By maintaining rigorous biosecurity protocols, horse owners and caretakers can safeguard the herd, minimize economic losses, and ensure the safety of both horses and humans in their care.
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