Published August, 2014

The University of Kentucky (UK) Gluck Equine Research Center will host a one-day symposium titled “Controlling EAV and Other Infectious Agents in Stallions, Semen, and Embryos” on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 8 a.m.–5:45 p.m. at the Embassy Suites in Lexington.

The safe international movement of stallions, semen, and embryos is essential to the equine industry's economic well-being. Venereal disease outbreaks can have disastrous impacts on the horse industry. This symposium focuses on strategies for controlling equine arteritis virus (EAV) and other infectious agents in stallions, semen, and embryos.

International experts will discuss topics such as the importance of the carrier stallion and methods to eliminate EAV from stallions; national and international consequences of an equine viral arteritis (EVA) outbreak; and safety and efficacy of vaccines against EVA and the veterinarian’s role in adapting a code of practice for minimizing the spread of venereal diseases. The symposium is targeted toward veterinarians, regulatory officials, farm managers, and breed registry representatives.

The symposium is partially funded by a USDA-NIFA-AFRI grant titled "Identification of genetic factors responsible for establishment of equine arteritis virus carrier state in stallions." However, registration is required and the event costs $25. To register, visithttps://eavsymposium.eventbrite.com.

Seven hours of continuing education (CE) is pending approval by the Kentucky Board of Veterinary Examiners for veterinarians and veterinary technicians. CE sheets must be signed at the meeting to receive credit.

For more information, contact Jenny Evans at jenny.evans@uky.edu or 859/218-1089.

Jenny Evans, MFA, is the marketing and promotion specialist senior at the Gluck Equine Research Center.