Minnesota Warned About Fatal Illness Confirmed in Neighboring States

Minnesotans are being warned of a potentially fatal illness confirmed in North and South Dakota. 

According to KIMT 3 News, the Minnesota Board of Animal Health says Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy (EHM) last hit Minnesota in 2015. It's a highly contagious horse disease and can be picked up by horses traveling to compete, breed, or train. If exposed to the disease, horses must be quarantined. 

Owners and exhibitors entering the state need to have a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection to ensure the animal(s) have been seen by a veterinarian is not exhibiting signs and symptoms of diseases. However, we can never be too sure what's actually crossing over state lines. 

Horse owners should follow biosecurity tips, which can be found here. 

Photo: Getty Images/Raquel Perez Garrido, EyeEm