EPM Explained: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

EPM Explained: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

March 18, 2026 · 47 min

About this episode

Dr. Phil van Harreveld discusses EPM in horses, covering its causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention strategies.

EPM is one of the most common and complex neurological diseases facing horses in North America, but what really causes it, and are there ways to protect your horse? In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine veterinarian Dr. Phil van Harreveld breaks down the real risks of EPM, explains early warning signs, debunks common myths, and gives actionable advice on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for every horse owner. Episode Highlights: 4:00: What causes EPM, where the parasite is found, and whether some horses are more susceptible than others 12:00: What owners can do to help reduce the risk of EPM in horses that have been exposed to the parasite 22:00: Common myths and misconceptions about EPM symptoms and diagnosis 31:20: Treatment options for EPM and how effective they are 34:20: How often EPM leads to neurological symptoms, how severe those symptoms can be, and the likelihood of recurrence after treatment Meet the Expert, Dr. Phil van Harreveld Dr. van Harreveld received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from North Carolina State University, and his master’s degree and surgical board certification from Kansas State University. He practiced as an equine veterinary surgeon for…

People in this episode

Guest: Dr. Phil van Harreveld

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Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Merck Animal Health

Places: North Carolina, Vermont, Kansas State University

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