JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Due to a viral horse flu affecting numerous horses in several states, A Moment of Freedom has announced that they will be cancelling their fundraising trail ride.

“It has been brought to our attention that the EHV 1 virus has been spreading through North Dakota,” states President Annie Keffeler. There are now suspected cases around the Jamestown area. We came to the difficult decision to cancel the trail ride and BBQ supper.”

EHV-1 can be spread through the air, contaminated equipment, clothing and hands. Biosecurity measures that can reduce the risk of spreading the disease include avoiding shared food or water containers and preventing nose-to-nose contact.

Though highly infectious and contagious among horses, EHV-1 poses no threat to human health.

“It’s not worth risking the health and well-being of our horses or the general public’s horses by possibly exposing them to this contagious virus,” Keffeler pointed out.

The ride, originally scheduled for May 19th, would raise money for the horse therapy riding program as they continue fundraising to build an outdoor arena in Buchanan, ND.

While disappointed the event could not be held, Keffeler states that there has been a lot of support and gratitude for their cause. She says they’ll be looking forward to next year to hold the event.