Horse Virus Cases Showing Up in Upper Midwest

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — State officials in the Upper Midwest are cautioning horse owners about a virus that spreads easily among the animals and can lead to breathing problems, abortions and nervous system disorders.

Three cases of equine herpesvirus have been documented this year in North Dakota and seven cases have been confirmed in Minnesota. The North Dakota horses are recovering, but three in Minnesota have been euthanized.

South Dakota hasn't documented any cases of EHV, but the state's Animal Industry Board earlier this month cautioned horse owners because of the cases in other states.

The American Quarter Horse Association has documented a number of cases and outbreaks across the nation over the past year, including the Minnesota cases. The association this month rescheduled events in Minnesota because of the Upper Midwest cases.