Belmont quarantine is extended after herpesvirus is confirmed

The New York Racing Association and the New York State Gaming Commission announced Sunday that Barn 15 at Belmont Park has been placed under a 21-day quarantine after test results confirmed a case of equine herbesvirus in that barn.

Cute Curls, an unraced 3-year-old filly trained by Danny Gargan, exhibited acute neurological symptoms on Saturday and was subsequently euthanized. Cornell University returned a positive test result for EHV on Sunday afternoon. No additional horses in Barn 15 have presented symptoms or developed fever.

Barn 15 was placed under quarantine at 3 p.m. EST on Saturday with standard precautions and biosecurity measures now in effect. The quarantine procedures are overseen by Dr. Sarah Hinchliffe, the director of NYRA’s veterinary department, in consultation with the NYSGC. Barn 15 will remain under quarantine through at least Feb. 24.

The 34 horses stabled in Barn 15, which also is home to stalls for Jim Ryerson and Gustavo Rodriguez, continue to be monitored for fever and other signs of illness.

During the quarantine period, horses stabled in Barn 15 will not be permitted to enter races or train among the general horse population.

Afebrile or asymptomatic horses stabled in Barn 15 will have isolated training hours at Belmont Park after the close of training for the general horse population.