The organizers of the Helsinki Horse Show have acted swiftly in coordination with the FEI to implement a comprehensive safety plan following detected cases of the EHV-1 virus (Equine Herpesvirus) in Finland. In close collaboration with the FEI’s Veterinary Department, several precautionary measures have been established to ensure the safety of all competing horses.
Following the detection of EHV-1 at a small number of stables in the Helsinki metropolitan area, the event organizers and the competition veterinarian have been in constant contact with Gonçalo Paixão, FEI Senior Veterinary & Equine Welfare Manager. To ensure all participants are fully informed, the FEI is issuing a direct communication via the Horse App to all entered athletes, outlining the mandatory protective measures.
Strict Separation of International and National Horses
One of the core elements of the safety plan is the complete separation of international horses from horses residing in Finland. The venue will utilize two distinct competition arenas and warm-up areas (International and National). This structural division ensures that the two groups of horses will not come into contact with one another at any point during the event.
Mandatory Testing and Temperature Monitoring
A set of rigorous entry requirements has been established for all horses entering the competition stables from within Finland:
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Negative PCR Test: All Finnish horses must present a negative EHV PCR test taken between February 22nd and 23rd.
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Approved Labs: Samples must be analyzed by an FEI-approved laboratory.
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Monitoring: Athletes must provide records of at least five days of temperature measurements prior to arrival. Monitoring will continue throughout the duration of the event.
Enhanced Hygiene and Veterinary Supervision
Before any horses arrive on-site, all stables, horse areas, and equipment will undergo a deep cleaning and disinfection process using Virkon-S. Event staff and volunteers will adhere to strict hygiene protocols, a practice strongly recommended for everyone working around the horses.
Stewards have been instructed to closely supervise all horse movements, and treating veterinarians are authorized to conduct unannounced testing in addition to the standard veterinary inspections.
While the infections in the region remain limited to a few specific locations, the Helsinki Horse Show organization remains committed to a proactive approach, prioritizing equine welfare and the continuity of top-level sport.
