Livestock board warns of horse virus

ALBUQUERQUE —With fair season approaching, the New Mexico Livestock Board is releasing several recommendations following confirmations of Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV) in several New Mexico counties.

The state has confirmed VSV in just four counties so far — Valencia, Sandoval, Los Alamos and Santa Fe — but the board urges diligence.

“While we are not ordering the cancellation of any events at this point, we recommend several advisable steps to keep animals safe,” State Veterinarian Dr. Ralph Zimmerman said. “I encourage common sense decision making and overall awareness of the situation.”

The board offers the following recommendations to fair organizers, rodeo organizers and anybody bringing animals to events:

n A qualified person — be it an extension agent, local veterinarian or knowledgeable livestock person — should be present at entry points to check animals’ mouths for lesions and use fresh gloves for each animal.

n Any questionable animal is to be sent home and not allowed on grounds.

n Use of fly spray is encouraged.

n Do not handle other people’s animals.

n Do not share grooming equipment or water buckets.

The virus can affect horses, cattle, sheep, goats, swine, camelids (alpacas and llamas) and cervids (deer species). Symptoms may include oral lesions, oral blistering and drooling. More details are available at

nmlbonline.com/news

Anybody taking horses or other livestock to other states is asked to contact their local veterinarian in advance.

If you suspect VSV, contact Zimmerman at 505-841-6161 or the USDA at 505-313-8050.