Could there be a change coming to Mid-City? Multiple reports say the owners of the New Orleans Fair Grounds is looking to sell the property that isn't just used for racing, but also Jazz Fest.

Advertisement New Orleans race course under quarantine due to spread of equine herpes virus Share Shares Copy Link Copy

Part of the New Orleans Fair Grounds facility is under quarantine due to the spread of an equine herpes virus, the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry said. State Veterinarian Dr. Brent Robbins made the announcement Thursday as the race course continues to deal with the aftermath of a horse that was found to have contracted the virus. “This quarantine is being implemented out of an abundance of caution as we work to contain the disease. While there has been restricted movement of horses at the racetrack, at this point, we cannot risk horses possibly leaving the Fair Grounds while some are still testing positive for the virus,” said Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain, D.V.M. Officials said the virus is highly contagious among horses, but it is not transmissible to humans. The virus is spread through the air, contaminated equipment, clothing and hands. Nasal swab and blood tests were positive for equine herpes virus-1 neurogenic strain, state leaders said in December. EHM is caused by a mutant strain of EHV-1, a common respiratory virus. The neuropathogenic strain can progress to a neurologic disease known as Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy. Race course officials said about 30 horses remain in isolation. A 2-year-old thoroughbred gelding was euthanized after it developed a fever and neurological signs. Officials said horses that have not been exposed to the virus will be allowed to race. Exposed horses will be monitored for at least 14 days and tested twice for the virus. “This quarantine is being done for the health and safety of all horses in the state and to protect the horse racing industry," Strain said. State leaders will continue to work with the race track alongside the United States Department of Agriculture's Veterinary Services and the Racing Commission. The last time EHM was detected at the track was in 2008. This is a developing story. Stay with WDSU.com for updates. Keep up with local news, weather and current events with the WDSU app here. Sign up for our email newsletters to get breaking news right in your inbox. Click here to sign up!