Local congressman presses USDA for answers on dangerous equine virus
U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas has sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture requesting detailed information on monitoring and response efforts for equine herpesvirus outbreaks. The congressman asked USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to explain surveillance, communication with state agencies, event guidance, and available resources for managing the highly contagious horse disease. The inquiry focuses on how federal authorities track cases, support Texas officials and work with veterinarians, horse owners and equine event organizers as the state reports EHV cases linked to major gatherings.