The Tonto National Forest has temporarily closed the lower Salt River area to most horses and pack animals after an equine virus was detected. The closure could last through March.
For at least two weeks to at most three months, horses and pack animals are prohibited in the affected areas, with some exceptions. All other recreation remains open.
Officials want to prevent the further spread of the Equine Vesicular Stomatitis Virus, also known as VSV. Mesa officials say about 300 wild horses roam the lower Salt River.
Forest officials say human infection with VSV is rare and resembles the flu.
In horses, VSV can cause symptoms like excessive salivation and blister-like lesions in the mouth and other areas.
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