Official Statement – Biosecurity Enhancements: April 22 2026

The Carolina Horse Park is committed to providing a safe and responsible environment for all equine athletes, competitors, and visitors. In consultation with veterinary professionals and following recommended guidance from the United States Equestrian Federation Equine, Welfare and Biosecurity veterinarian, enhanced biosecurity measures will be implemented for the upcoming Sedgefield at the Park competition.

These precautions are being taken proactively and out of an abundance of caution following a recently reported case of Equine Herpesvirus‑1 (EHV‑1) associated with an event in Culpeper, VA. Based on consultation with veterinary professionals and state officials, proper containment measures were implemented at that facility, and the overall risk to other horses remains low when appropriate protocols are followed.

Required Biosecurity Measures

The following requirements will be in place for all horses attending Sedgefield at the Park (April 24-26, 2026):

Temperature Monitoring

• Twice-daily temperature checks beginning Wednesday, April 22, prior to arrival at the show grounds.
• Temperature checks must continue through the completion of competition on Sunday, April 26.
• Temperature logs must be documented and available upon request.
• Any temperature greater than 101.5°F in a rested horse must be reported immediately to event officials or the event veterinarian.

Enhanced Biosecurity Recommendations

For the safety and welfare of all horses on-site, we strongly encourage the following best practices:

• Do not travel to the show if a horse has had a temperature of 101.5°F or higher within three days prior to arrival.
• Horses that have been in contact with a febrile horse should also remain off-site.
• Avoid horse-to-horse contact whenever possible.
• Clean and disinfect tack, grooming tools, stall supplies, and shared equipment between uses.
• Use hand sanitizer before handling different horses.
• Disinfect clothing and equipment when moving between horses.
• Dispose of manure and bedding only in designated areas.

Current Veterinary Guidance

Veterinary consultation at the local, state, and national levels indicates that the affected horse associated with the Virginia case was identified early in the disease process and removed promptly for veterinary care. State officials implemented quarantine measures for directly exposed horses, and all required containment protocols were followed.

Horses under official quarantine are not permitted to travel to events per USEF rules. Horses not under quarantine are cleared to continue normal activities, with enhanced biosecurity practices recommended as a precaution.

It is important to note:

• EHV-1 is a common virus present in equine environments.
• Many horses may carry the virus without showing clinical signs.
• Routine biosecurity practices remain the most effective method of disease prevention.

The virus does not affect humans or other domestic animals.

Carolina Horse Park Preparedness

The Carolina Horse Park maintains a detailed and comprehensive Isolation Plan, developed in collaboration with local and state veterinary professionals and reviewed with USEF biosecurity specialists. This plan can be implemented immediately should any horse meet criteria requiring isolation and further veterinary evaluation.

Our team remains in close communication with veterinary professionals and industry leadership to ensure we are following the most current recommendations and best practices.

Our Commitment

The health and safety of horses is our highest priority. These enhanced measures reflect our ongoing commitment to responsible management, preparedness, and the welfare of every horse on our grounds.

We appreciate the cooperation of all exhibitors, trainers, and horse owners in supporting these protocols and maintaining the highest standards of equine care.

Contact Information:

Helen Murray: helen@carolinahorsepark.com

Steve Wall: stevewall7@hotmail.com