On August 24, 2023 the Reno Snaffle Bit Futurity published the following statement on Facebook:
“The safety and well-being of your animals is a top priority at the Reno Snaffle Bit Futurity. As we gear up for the highly anticipated event, we want to ensure that everyone is well-informed about the latest developments regarding the Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV) outbreak in certain states, notably in California.
Affected States and Revised Entry Requirements: Since the VSV outbreak, we’ve been actively monitoring the situation. As of July 5, 2023, states with reported cases of VSV are California. If your horses are originating from VSV-diagnosed states or will be traveling through such states on their way to Nevada, please be advised of the following requirements:
Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) – Currently, all horses from a state where Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV) has been diagnosed, or visiting an infected state and then returning to Nevada, except those moving directly to slaughter, must be accompanied by a CVI that includes the statement:
“I have examined all the animals identified on this certificate within seven (7) days of shipment date and have found them to be free from signs of Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV). During the last fourteen (14) days, these animals have not been exposed to VSV nor located on a VSV confirmed or a VSV suspected premises.”
Out-of-State Participants – Before traveling to the event, please contact your state animal health officials to determine the requirements for returning livestock to your state after the event.
Premises Control Measures – We encourage minimizing shared water and feed sources. Avoid using communal feed bins, water troughs, and equipment between participants. Effective insect control and abatement are crucial in preventing the spread of VSV. Be vigilant and observant at all times. Keep an eye out for any clinical signs of VSV, including excessive salivation and blister-like lesions.
For the most up-to-date and comprehensive information is available at: https://agri.nv.gov/…/Animal_Disease/Import_Requirements/.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. Let’s work together to ensure a safe and successful Reno Snaffle Bit Futurity!”
USDA Vesicular Stomatitis Virus Situation Report
The United States Department Of Agriculture (USDA) VSV Situation Report published on August 22, 2023 stated the following:
“The 2023 VSV outbreak began on May 17, 2023, when the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) in Ames, Iowa, confirmed the first VSV-positive premises in San Diego County, California. Texas was subsequently confirmed VSV-positive by NVSL on June 15, 2023 (Maverick County, Texas) and Nevada was confirmed VSV-positive by NVSL on July 27, 2023 (White Pine County, Nevada).”
Although three infected premises were found in Texas and Nevada, all Nevada cases were released from quarantine on August 9. A case in Shackelford County, Texas remained under quarantine as of August 22.
