State Issue Quarantine at Parx Racing

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has issued a strict quarantine order for horses at Parx Racing in Bensalem, after a horse being stabled at the track tested positive for equine herpesvirus, Type 1.

The virus poses no threat to people.

According to a release from the state agriculture department, some horses at the track had come in contact with the affected horse and have shown signs of having the disease—fever to neurological impairment.

Barns housing the horses will be quarantined for at least 21 days, and until the horses are no longer testing positive for the disease.

Under the quarantine, horses' movements on and off the track are restricted. Those under quarantine are not allowed to train.

Equine herpesvirus, which is highly contagious among horses, causes upper respiratory infection and severe neurological disease in horses, the state agricultural department said.

Horse owners with concerns can contact the Bureau of Animal Health and Diagnostic Services at 717-772-2852.