Two horses in the Penn Valley area have been diagnosed with an ailment that’s considered very contagious to other horses. Nevada County Community Development Agency Director Sean Powers says what’s called the Equine Coronavirus is transmitted through contact with feces. Testing on other horses in the immediate contact area is underway.There is no threat to humans, but it’s very contagious for horses…

click to listen to Sean Powers

With Equine Coronavirus, horses can go from no temperature to a high fever in a very short amount of time. Powers says the mortality rate is fairly low, with proper diagnosis and treatment. It’s suggested that you limit interactions with horses and other animals outside your property…

click to listen to Sean Powers

People riding on trails must be careful and people visiting other ranches or horse facilities should wash their hands and limit interactions with other animals. Powers says test results of at least some of the horses may be available tomorrow (Fri.). He does not know how many other horses are being tested. He says there have been cases in past years in the county.