Latest from Horse & Hound in Equine-flu

Owners and vets urged to report flu outbreaks as true picture is worse than official stats

Lucy Elder — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:52:33 +0000

Horse owners and vets are being urged to report equine flu cases as experts believe true figures to be significantly higher than the number of reported outbreaks.

The Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance (EIDS) team has “strongly” encouraged vets and owners to provide permission for anonymous reporting in its latest update (25 June).

“Every outbreak reported strengthens our understanding of the disease situation and improves the information available to the industry to protect the equine population, help limit further spread and ideally bring this outbreak to a close as quickly as possible,” said an EIDS spokesperson.

EIDS has received reports of 116 laboratory-confirmed outbreaks across 53 counties since 1 April. But the latest update said that “the most significant challenge” in assessing the situation is the “growing number of confirmed cases that cannot be included in national reporting”.

“EIDS is aware of a further 50 laboratory-confirmed outbreaks for which outbreak details and/or permission for anonymous reporting have not been received. This means that while 116 outbreaks are currently included in national updates, EIDS is aware of 166 confirmed outbreaks since April,” said the spokesperson.

“In other words, nearly one third of all confirmed outbreaks known to EIDS are currently absent from published reports.

“The consequences extend far beyond outbreak numbers. Without permission to include these outbreaks in our analyses, information on vaccination status, horse movements, links between outbreaks and geographical spread is lost. These data are an invaluable component of outbreak surveillance, helping to identify risk factors, track patterns of spread and provide evidence-based epidemiological advice to the wider industry.”

EIDS analysis of reported outbreaks highlights recent travel and lack of vaccination as the two most consistent features. Of the 116 outbreaks, 76 (66%) involved horses who had travelled before they were diagnosed, and 73 of 116 (63%) involved horses who were unvaccinated or whose vaccinations had lapsed. Only 10% of outbreaks involve vaccinated horses.

“The increasing geographical distribution of outbreaks suggests that movement-associated transmission continues to introduce infection into previously unaffected areas. Continued vigilance, prompt investigation of suspected cases and robust biosecurity measures remain essential, particularly during periods of increased horse movement and mixing,” said the spokesperson.

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) commended the way in which a positive case in a vaccinated thoroughbred was handled last month and is urging “continued vigilance” by those working in the industry.

A horse arrived on 12 June at a yard adjacent to Mel and Phil Rowley’s licensed premises in Shropshire from the Goffs Arkle Sale in Kildare. When the infected horse arrived at the isolation yard, he was not showing any clinical signs of the virus – these developed the following evening and were confirmed by testing. He was kept in isolation, and no horses were allowed to enter or leave that yard or the licensed premises.

The BHA worked with transporters to identify other horses who travelled to Britain with the infected horse and targeted action on a case-by-case basis, depending on the level of risk. This included PCR testing and some runners being withdrawn.

Restrictions on the Rowleys’ operation have been lifted and the BHA has stressed that their proactive approach “has helped avoid what could potentially have been a much bigger and less manageable outbreak”.

Equine flu: New Forest situation

The disease is also running through the New Forest.

A spokesperson for the verderers of the New Forest told H&H the infection started in the north of the forest at Woodgreen, where the animals now appear to have recovered.

“It has steadily spread to an ever-widening area, now moving south and has reached Burley in approximately the middle of the forest. There is no reason to suppose that it won’t cover the entire area eventually,” said the spokesperson. “Veterinary advice is to leave the ponies to deal with it in their natural environment except in extreme cases. We remind riders on the open forest to stay away from forest stock, and that the infection is windblown to some considerable distance.”

Vet Alan Hough, of Celtic Equine Vets on the edge of the New Forest, told H&H on Friday (26 June) that around 10 ponies in the forest have been found dead who “were noted to have strong flu symptoms shortly before death, so the presumption is the flu did result in their death”.

He added that the vets have not been able to sample these animals yet for that to be conclusive, but are in discussion with the verderers and EIDS.

He noted that the last outbreak in the New Forest herd was 30 years ago, so the ponies have no or low immunity, and the way they live means veterinary treatments available to domestic horses are not feasible.

Mr Hough stressed this is not a case of their owners’ being at fault; rather vaccination schedules are unworkable and also chasing a sick animal into a corral with others when he is unwell is not good for his welfare or those around him.

He said that wider vaccination of the UK herd as a whole is key and encouraged governing bodies to work together and agree on six-monthly vaccinations, adding: “I think if that becomes the norm, you will have a critical number of people who have to have six-monthly, which will help drive up this level of herd immunity. Nationally we suspect only about 40% of the equine herd are vaccinated, and we need to get that nearer 75 to 80%, to try to prevent these sort of national outbreaks.

“We’ll still always have outbreaks, but they’d be very localised, just one or two horses affected. They won’t be on the scale we’re seeing at the moment.”

Equine flu: how does reporting work?

Vet practices can report outbreaks directly through the EIDS disease reporting platform by ticking a box to confirm they have consent. Once confirmed, EIDS will circulate an International Collating Centre (ICC) report and request a TellTail text alert.
Vet practices can also submit nasopharyngeal swabs from potential cases for complementary laboratory testing (funded by the Horserace Betting Levy Board). If a case returns a positive result under this scheme, EIDS are permitted to report it.
Vet practices are able to sign up to these schemes by visiting: www.equinesurveillance.org

Read the latest EIDS update (25 June)

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Equine flu: what horse owners need to know during the current outbreak in Britain

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‘Good owners vaccinate their horses against flu for their welfare, not just to compete,’ says equine vet

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‘This is a worrying time indeed,’ says top show horse producer Katie Jerram-Hunnable

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 09:32:47 +0000

Top British show horse producer Katie Jerram-Hunnable shares her thoughts on the plight of our county shows and equine flu

While it seems to be business as usual for many of us producers, I feel it’s not the case for others as numbers in some classes seem worryingly low, even at our traditional county shows.

I always feel very torn when it comes to our local county shows. I used to religiously ensure that I took horses to them. But, they fall early in summer and I found if I prioritised these fixtures, I missed a handful of the early Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) qualifiers at other prestigious county shows and I ran the risk of missing out on early tickets.

As a producer, it’s therefore not a viable choice; I have to consider the wishes of my owners who naturally hope to see their horses at Hickstead and HOYS and must plan my season accordingly.

Also, we run a different risk by not supporting the county shows that are granted qualifiers. HOYS have a strict handle on the numbers entered and an affiliation fee, so if we don’t support them, they will be both out of pocket and without qualifiers.

While I understand the financial justification for centralising the bulk of the HOYS qualifiers, it doesn’t help the more regional county shows such as those we have here in the south-east of the country.

It’s a similar plight affecting shows across the south, the north and into Wales and Scotland, where there are rarely qualifying opportunities.

What this means for regional talent and showing’s future is a discussion for another day, but I fear it can’t be good.

These shows provide a vital shop window for our public to see showing, and perhaps even other country or agricultural pursuits for the first time. Who knows, an inspired member of the public could become a future supporter of our shows in a plethora of ways.

They also provide a cracking – and nostalgic – day out for our teams as well as the public. To wind up losing more of these traditional fixtures would be a great shame.

Shows, safety and survival

This season, our shows have the added complication of the spread of equine flu across the country.

Personally, I think that having shows check passports and vaccination records is a good thing and I’m thoroughly unimpressed with tales of people trying to flout the rules.

Perhaps the classes most at risk of very low numbers from this outbreak are the mare and foal classes.

Understandably, breeders and producers are wary of taking young foals to shows due to the risk of exposure. They will all be old enough to travel according to guidelines, but not old enough to be vaccinated, as initial vaccination isn’t recommended until the foal is four to six months old.

My husband Chris is on the Sport Horse Breeding of Great Britain committee so I know they are particularly worried about the safety of hosting these classes at their championship show. What a pity if a society dedicated to breeding is left unable to showcase breeding stock at its flagship event.

At this point, I urge everyone to be careful, to be responsible and to do their part in minimising the spread of disease. The last thing our industry needs is for organisers to feel forced into cancelling shows, similar to what happened during the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak and more recently, the Covid-19 epidemic.

Many of our fixtures failed to get back off the ground afterwards. Further cancellations could mean unsurvivable financial losses to some more shows, making this a very worrying time indeed.

● What measures would you like to see our shows employ to minimise the risk of flu? Let us know at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your thoughts published in a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine

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‘A parade of hopeful rule-benders’: horse shows crack down on vaccination in light of flu outbreaks

Lucy Elder — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 16:13:04 +0000

Shows are stepping up checks and competitors are reminded that they will be turned away if a horse’s vaccination status does not comply with the applicable rules.

In the first week of June, the equine infections disease surveillance (EIDS) team at Cambridge Vet School confirmed 15 outbreaks of equine flu across 13 regions. As H&H went to press this afternoon (8 June), there had been a total of 95 outbreaks in 2026, of which 82 have been confirmed since 20 April.

Jenna Payne, chief executive of the Association of Show and Agricultural Organisations (ASAO), joined the team of vets and experienced stewards on the horse gate checkpoint at Devon County Show (20 to 22 May).

She told H&H they were anticipating a few problems but were in no way on the scale they experienced.

“The first morning was a parade of hopeful rule‑benders. We turned away around 15 horseboxes, most for the same reason: passports that didn’t match the horses entered,” she said.

“Thankfully, the show secretary had armed us with exhibitor lists, making it easy to cross‑reference names and spot the mismatches.

“By day two, people got more inventive. By day three, nobody even tried. Word travels fast when a team is thorough.”

Some of the examples they saw included the number of horses on board differing from the number they were told, horses not matching passports, and microchips not tallying with passports.

She said that if people had forgotten to bring passports, they used live video calls to verify passports and vaccination histories, and some vet practices emailed PDF histories when needed.

“For every difficult encounter, we had many more exhibitors thanking us for being thorough. Those who were fully compliant were genuinely appreciative that the rules were being upheld fairly and consistently,” she said.

Her tips for show organisers this summer is to communicate with exhibitors, have experienced passport checking teams available and a clear lead to adjudicate on discrepancies and to cross-reference passport names with exhibitor lists.

She also encouraged shows to count horses on every vehicle, use a microchip reader and have a spare, and create a holding bay to avoid a horsebox blocking the queue.

“However, if we’re looking for a simple, effective step towards cleaning up our shows, introducing a passport/vaccination check at number collection would be an excellent place to start,” she said.

Mrs Payne added that a lot of other shows are already picking this up and doing similar – and she hopes word will spread.

These include Royal Cornwall (June 4 to 5), which checked all passports on arrival, Royal Bath & West (28 to 30 May), which checked on number collection, and Great Yorkshire Show (14 to 17 July), which has always checked on collection of numbers.

Passports are being checked at British Dressage, British Eventing (BE) and British Showjumping events. BE chief executive Rosie Williams told H&H that BE has “ramped up its checks” and is being “very clear with everybody” that correct vaccinations “have to be in place and if they are not, we will send you home”.

Lucy Grieve, veterinary projects officer at the British Equestrian Veterinary Association, told H&H thorough passport checks at shows and events “are an essential part of safeguarding equine health”.

“Organisers need to be confident that every horse arriving is correctly identifiable and meets the equine influenza vaccination requirements, particularly given the ongoing surge in outbreaks across the UK,” she said, noting that horses must be accompanied by their passports when being transported.

“While these passport checks are vital, they can be time-consuming and resource-intensive for event staff. A national digital equine identification system would significantly streamline and improve the accuracy of the process by allowing vaccination records to be verified in advance, reducing administrative burden and improving compliance.

“Such a system would also enhance traceability in the event of a disease outbreak, enabling faster identification and notification of horses that may have been exposed; strengthening the UK’s ability to prevent and control the spread of infectious disease.

“The Government has promised such a system for many years now but has failed to deliver due to lack of funds.”

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‘Good owners vaccinate their horses against flu for their welfare, not just to compete,’ says equine vet

Lucy Elder — Thu, 28 May 2026 16:58:34 +0000

Vaccination is vital to protect our horses and prevent spread of disease in light of the rise in cases of equine flu.

The equine infectious disease surveillance (EIDS) team at Cambridge Vet School has confirmed a total of 76 cases since the start of the year, 74 since the start of April. The geographic spread of confirmed cases is wide; affected horses have been reported in 39 different counties this year.

H&H reported this month on a call by EIDS for “vigilance for early clinical signs, maintaining up-to-date vaccination status and implementing isolation protocols for new arrivals”.

British Dressage, British Eventing and British Showjumping are recommending members move horses to a six-month vaccination cycle, bring forward boosters if a horse’s last vaccination was more than six months ago, plus other advice.

Equine vet Alan Hough, of Celtic Equine Veterinary Practice in Hampshire, called for a mindset shift away from vaccinations being simply a tick-box exercise for competition, to vaccinating because responsible owners care about keeping horses healthy.

“I think we need to change the narrative away from vaccinations being something that you have to do to go to a show with your horse, to something that you absolutely should do for the welfare of your animal because you’re a good owner,” he said.

He encouraged owners to seek advice from their own vets about individual situations and added that Celtic Equine Veterinary Practice is advising those taking horses out and about that “the six-monthly booster is sensible”.

“We’re advising clients if it’s been more than four or five months since their last flu vaccination to consider having a six-monthly booster done now. For some owners, the booster might not be due for another two months, and they’re bringing it forward just to give it some more protection now while the higher circulating levels are around,” he said.

He added that vaccinated horses generally have much milder signs, the course of infection is shorter and they have reduced viral shedding, so are less likely to contaminate the environment.

Mr Hough also stressed that flu is an airborne disease.

“If you’ve got a high circulation level of flu in an area, just because the horse never leaves the yard doesn’t mean it’s safe unfortunately, so this is why vaccination is our best protection against flu,” he said, adding that the virus can travel three to five kilometres in the right conditions.

“With other diseases, like strangles, if you have good biosecurity, you can curtail a lot of things, whereas unfortunately, with airborne pathogens, such as herpes and flu, this is why your vaccination is your best means of defence.”

Mr Hough urged those in the industry to think of good biosecurity as “part and parcel” of dealing with horses every day, rather than as a “knee-jerk” reaction to disease outbreaks.

Asked by British Equestrian about whether horses who do not travel or compete should still be vaccinated, vet Hattie Bell, of EIDS, said this is about “risk assessment for your own horse”, but there is “a possibility your horse will be exposed”.

“If you’re on a yard where every other horse is going out competing, you can’t be sure they’re not bringing it back – even if they are vaccinated. If your horse is completely naive, we know they show more severe clinical signs and that’s the bit you’re trying to protect [against],” she said, adding owners don’t know what horses are moving around in the vicinity all the time.

“If your horse is on his own and you know there are horses two or three fields away, you can’t be sure they also don’t have it. With the warm winds we are having, that can definitely travel over and expose your horse.”

As of Wednesday (20 May), only horses from licensed training yards have been allowed to enter racecourses on racedays. Hunter chases are cancelled and the British Horseracing Authority is working with Ascot to “enable the royal procession to go ahead without any increased risk”.

For more on equine flu, see the Vet Clinic pages in the current issue of Horse & Hound magazine – on sale from today (Thursday, 28 May)

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Equine flu: what horse owners need to know during the current outbreak in Britain

Carol Phillips — Thu, 21 May 2026 13:27:03 +0000

This article has been edited and approved by Karen Coumbe MRCVS, H&H’s veterinary advisor since 1991.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Equine flu, as equine influenza is commonly known, is caused by various strains of the influenza virus that affect the upper and lower respiratory tract of horses, donkeys and mules. It is a major and economically important cause of acute respiratory disease throughout the world, with the exception of some island nations, such as Iceland and New Zealand. As H&H’s veterinary advisor Karen Coumbe has said, “equine flu rarely kills horses, but it does kill horse events”.

There has been a significant increase in cases of equine flu in the British horse population since 1 April 2026. This has led to tighter biosecurity requirements at horse shows and other places where horses come together. Six-monthly vaccinations are being recommended with horses’ passports now being checked on arrival at many venues. The increase in cases is not inline with the normal pattern, which research published in the Equine Veterinary Journal has shown typically increases in the final quarter of the calendar year.

British Equestrian (BEF) is calling for “horse owners, yard managers and vets to adopt a risk-based approach when moving horses, particularly between premises, events and regions” during this outbreak. The BEF has also stated that France is also seeing heightened equine influenza activity, particularly in the north of the country, so advises using “extreme caution when travelling horses to, from or through there”. This also applies to purchasing horses from France.

View the latest data from the Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance website

What are the signs of equine flu?

A very high temperature of 39-41C (103-106F) which lasts for one to three days
A frequent harsh, dry cough that can last for several weeks
A clear, watery nasal discharge that may become thick and yellow or green
Enlarged glands under the lower jaw
Clear discharge from the eyes and redness around eyes
Depression and loss of appetite
Sometimes filling of the lower limbs, muscle stiffness and other signs such as weight loss

How do horses catch equine flu?

As with the human version, equine flu is very contagious. With an incubation period of one to five days, it spreads rapidly as the virus is released into the atmosphere by infected animals. It is mainly acquired through inhalation of virus from ill animals coughing and spluttering infected respiratory droplets. Indirect spread is also possible via buckets or grooms/handlers/nurses/vets.

Unlike strangles and some other infections, the flu virus does not linger nor survive for long outside the horse, but it can be airborne, blowing over surprisingly long distances, certainly more than 1km.

Once the virus has been inhaled, it invades the lining (epithelium) of the horse’s airway, which becomes inflamed, producing a very sore throat and a nasty cough. This damage causes patches of the membranes lining the airways to ulcerate, which disrupts the clearance of mucus and debris from the airways causing a thick discharge from the horse’s nose. Bacteria then invade the damaged areas leading to further infections.

How serious is equine flu: do I need to call the vet?

If your horse shows a raised temperature and/or any signs of equine influenza, strict hygiene and isolation procedures should be adhered to immediately and you should contact your vet.

Horses that have been in contact with an affected animal should be carefully monitored and should not attend shows or external clinics or training.

It is recommended that horses on a stable yard with an outbreak of equine flu do not leave the premises while the outbreak is ongoing.

Diagnosis of equine flu

An accurate diagnosis of equine flu can be made by:

recognising the clinical signs and the history of rapid spread between horses
isolation of the virus through nasal or nasopharyngeal swabs
rising antibody levels in blood (serum) samples taken early in the course of the disease and two to three weeks later
history of recent contact with a confirmed case of the disease

Vaccinated horses may still show signs, but these are usually much milder than those seen in unvaccinated horses.

Equine flu treatment

Basic nursing is key when treating a horse with the virus. Good stable ventilation and dust-free management is essential. Exposure to dust should be minimised, as horses with respiratory infections are more susceptible to airway irritation. It is best to switch to dust-free bedding and feed soaked hay, or better still haylage, from the floor.

If weather permits and risks to other animals are manageable, then affected horses benefit from being turned out for at least part of the day once their temperatures have returned to normal. This is especially important in the recovery stages. At the same time infected horses should be isolated.

Antibiotics have no effect against a virus, but can be useful to control secondary bacterial invasion. This is a risk in foals or elderly or otherwise unwell animals, which can succumb to fatal pneumonia. Medications to help breathing can prove beneficial.

How long does equine flu last?

Horses that catch equine flu typically start to show signs around one to five days after exposure and it may take three to six weeks before the signs pass, assuming they are receive appropriate care.

Horses with a respiratory infection should be given complete rest and not restart any strenuous exercise until at least three to four weeks after the signs have gone.

How to prevent flu in horses

Flu is difficult to control, especially in equine that are frequently transported and mixed extensively, so regular vaccination of horses is important. Equine flu outbreaks are most common when young susceptible horses are brought together at sales and shows, or for weaning and training.

Surprisingly low numbers of the UK’s horse population are vaccinated, despite the fact that vaccination is the preferred method of control and is compulsory when competing under British Horseracing Authority, FEI and affiliated governing bodies’ rules in the UK.

Whenever you attend shows or training outings away from home, you should follow strict biosecurity and hygiene methods such as:

Do not allow horses to touch or sniff other horses
Riders/grooms should only handle their own horses and tack
Do not share buckets or kit with other horses/riders
Avoid using on-site water facilities. If this is impossible, avoid placing the hose into the bucket and sanitise your hands before carrying the bucket to the horse
Avoid hand grazing your horse at a venue
Ensure show stables have been disinfected before and after use and all bedding removed and replaced with fresh
Horse’s temperature should be taken before travel to an external venue
Horses returning from external venues should be isolated if possible, with their temperature and their health closely monitored

How often are horses vaccinated for flu?

All British equine sport governing bodies require the minimum of the first two vaccines to have been given prior to attending competition.

The British Horseracing Authority introduced new flu vaccination rules on 1 January 2022 to harmonise with other racing authorities in Europe. The new rules increased the frequency of boosters from 12 months to six months and reduced the time periods between the first and second vaccines from 21-92 days to 21-60 days, and between the second and third vaccines from 150-215 days to 120-180 days.

NB: We recommend all competition riders double check the latest version of the appropriate rulebook to ensure your horse’s vaccinations comply with their governing body’s requirements.

British Horseracing Authority: horses must have been vaccinated against equine flu within the past six months. Horses must not have been vaccinated less than seven days before racing.FEI competitions: a booster vaccination must have been given no more than six months and 21 days prior to competing. A vaccination should not have been given within seven days of the competition or of entry into the FEI stables.British Dressage (BD): Once a horse has received its first three vaccinations, further vaccinations can be given at 12 monthly intervals, but not within seven days of competing. In response to the spring 2026 outbreaks, BD is “strongly recommending that all members move to a six-month vaccination cycle”. If your horse’s last vaccination was more than six months ago, BD recommends “that you bring their annual booster forward to provide sufficient cover when competing during the summer season”.British Eventing (BE): Horses require an annual booster every 12 months for national BE competitions, since 1 January 2026. A horse may not compete if it has been given the booster on any of the seven days before it is to compete at an event. Although six monthly boosters are not mandated by BE, the organisation strongly advises that horse owners and competitors give horses an additional booster at this time of high risk if they were last vaccinated more than six months previously.British Showjumping (BS): Horses to have received booster vaccinations not more than 365 days from their last vaccination, and should not compete within seven days of receiving a vaccination. In response to the spring 2026 outbreaks, BS venues will be carrying out passport checks on arrival. BS has shared the Equine Infectious Disease Action Group’s recommendation that owners whose horses were last vaccinated more than six months ago, are strongly recommended to bring their next booster forwards to give them the best protection during the outbreak.British Riding Clubs (BRC): Horses must have had their initial course, plus annual (12 month) vaccinations to attend BRC qualifiers and/or championships.

If a horse or pony is competing in one discipline for instance, showjumping but it is attending an event at a venue, such as a racecourse, it will be required to comply with the vaccination requirements under the rules of racing, which means it must have been vaccinated within six month, but not in the previous seven days.

The British Horseracing Authority has stated that, from Wednesday 20 May 2026, only horses from licensed training yards will be allowed to enter racecourses on racedays. This means all scheduled hunter chases from 20 May have been called off and Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) parades are cancelled. Racecourses are also increasing the period of time between hosting an equine event involving horses from unlicensed premises and a licensed raceday to six clear days (from three).

The vaccination record(s) in the horse’s passport, must be completed, signed and stamped line by line, by an appropriate veterinary surgeon (who is neither the owner nor the rider of the horse). The responsibility to comply with this rule lies with the owner, who should consult with their vet.

From 1 January 2026, for horses competing under FEI rules, flu vaccinations must be recorded digitally in the FEI HorseApp, as well as in the horse’s passport. Vets must enter the vaccination details on the day it is administered. There is a transition period running until 30 June 2026 during which no sanctions will be issued, but from 1 July 2026 missing or incorrect digital records may result in fines for the person responsible (this is usually the horse’s rider).

What to do during an equine flu outbreak?

If flu occurs locally, it may be advisable to give a booster vaccination to any healthy horse that has not been vaccinated in the previous six months. Consult your vet for advice.

The BEF explains that “frequent boosters ensure antibody levels remain high, which is essential for reducing both the severity of the disease and risk of the virus shedding within the wider equine population”.

You may wish to limit the situations where you expose your horse to others by reducing the competitions and training outings you attend, or choose only to visit venues that actively check the vaccination status of equines in attendance and require six-monthly boosters.

Can humans catch equine flu?

The equine influenza virus is similar to the flu virus that affects people, but is not identical, so horses cannot catch human influenza or vice versa.

References and further reading

What happened after the epidemic? Equine influenza surveillance sheds light on sources and seasonal risk in the United Kingdom Equine Veterinary Journal, 5 March 2026

British Dressage’s equine influenza update, British Dressage website, 20 May 2026

British Showjumping’s equine influenza update, British Showjumping website, 21 May 2026

British Eventing’s equine influenza update, British Eventing website, 21 May 2026

Call for increased vigilance as number of reported equine influenza outbreaks in UK continues to rise, British Equestrian website, 12 May 2026

Annual booster vaccination and the risk of equine influenza to Thoroughbred racehorses Equine veterinary journal, 21 November 2019

British Horseracing Authority: amendments to the vaccines code, October 2021

British Riding Clubs Important Flu Vaccination Update, 21 October 2022

British Eventing vaccination update, British Eventing Facebook page, 15 December 2025

Mandatory registration of equine influenza vaccination details in the FEI HorseApp, FEI website, 12 Dec 2025

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Rising equine flu cases lead to special measures at Royal Ascot

Lucy Elder — Mon, 18 May 2026 16:49:10 +0000

Hunter chases have been abandoned, special measures enlisted for the royal procession at Ascot and retired racehorse parades cancelled owing to the continued rise in equine flu cases.

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has announced that only horses from licensed training yards will be allowed to enter racecourses on racedays from Wednesday (20 May).

“With a continued rise in reported equine influenza cases in the non-thoroughbred population, this is a precautionary measure to prevent any mixing between the thoroughbred racing herd and horses and ponies from yards that are not licensed,” said a statement from the BHA.

This means all scheduled hunter chases from 20 May, including the popular hunter chase evening at Stratford on 29 May, have been called off. Other equine events due to take place on British racecourses, including Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) parades, are also cancelled.

The BHA statement also said the authority is “working with Ascot racecourse to replicate the biosecurity measures of a licensed premises to enable the royal procession to go ahead without any increased risk”. Traditionally, members of the royal family and invited guests arrive in a horse-drawn procession before racing each day at Royal Ascot.

Biosecurity measures will also be required for police horses attending the racecourse. Conversations are already in progress around this and the BHA will meet with Ascot, the police and others to work through the practicalities.

James Given, BHA director of equine regulation, safety and welfare, said: “The news today will understandably be disappointing for many people, but levels of equine flu are higher than at any time in recent history and it’s essential that we take all necessary steps to protect the thoroughbred herd.

“These measures follow extensive engagement with independent infectious disease experts about how we further reduce the risk of exposure and ensure the continuity of racing.

“In addition to vaccination, this can be best achieved by preventing the mixing of racehorses with horses and ponies from premises that are not licensed by the BHA, where we have more limited information about their health and vaccination status.”

The racecourse restrictions will remain in place until the BHA is “confident that the levels of equine influenza in the British horse population have fallen and there is no heightened risk to the thoroughbred racing herd”.

“I’m encouraged by the response we have already seen from the racing community about the vital importance of maintaining the biosecurity of the thoroughbred racing herd. We continue to urge constant vigilance, especially around the movement and mixing of horses,” said Mr Given.

“Information about vaccination, infection control measures and spotting the signs of flu are available on the BHA website.”

The BHA is working with the racecourses that were due to hold hunter chases to discuss options for potentially replacing lost races.

Racecourses will also be required to increase the period of time between hosting an equine event involving horses from unlicensed premises and a licensed raceday taking place to six clear days (from three).

The measures follow consultation with experts at Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance (EIDS) and the Racecourse Association’s representative on the BHA veterinary group. The BHA has also engaged with affected racecourses, the ROR, the Point-to-Point Authority and the Pony Racing Authority.

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Horse owners warned vigilance and vaccination key as equine flu cases continue to rise

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 11 May 2026 17:04:02 +0000

Horse owners are urged to be vigilant and ensure vaccinations are up to date after a “marked increase” in equine influenza (EI) activity.

Today (11 May), the equine infectious disease surveillance (EIDS) team at Cambridge Vet School had confirmed 52 outbreaks of EI in 32 counties, in England, Scotland and Wales, since 1 April. Only two cases were confirmed between 1 January and 31 March this year and between 1 January and 10 May last year, only one case was reported in the country.

The number of equine flu cases reported per week has been on the increase since the first week in April when there were two; there were four the following week and five the one after. There were 13 cases confirmed for each of the next two weeks, 15 between 4 and 10 May.

On 7 May, EIDS said timely reporting of cases is critical.

“The continued emergence of cases across a wide geographic area, combined with the strong association with recent horse movement, highlights the importance of movement-related risk during periods of heightened EI activity,” a spokesperson said. “EI virus can spread over several kilometres under suitable conditions; therefore infection should not be excluded in premises with no recent horse movement, particularly in regions with known local activity.”

Equine flu increase: risk-based approach

Horse and yard owners and vets are urged to take a “risk-based approach” to moving horses.

“Vigilance for early clinical signs, maintaining up-to-date vaccination status and implementing isolation protocols for new arrivals remain essential,” the spokesperson said. “EIDS continues to encourage reporting of confirmed EI cases, with permission to share anonymised data at county level. This enables the development of an accurate and timely national picture of EI activity.”

Plumpton racecourse abandoned its fixture on 10 May owing to a case of EI and equine herpes virus, in an unvaccinated horse at a livery yard next to the course.

The British Horseracing Authority’s James Given said it was a precautionary measure, taken to protect horses.

“We have also seen a significant recent rise in the number of equine flu outbreaks across the country, in the non-thoroughbred herd,” he said. “I urge trainers and teams to remain vigilant in their own biosecurity measures and be alert to the signs of infection.”

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Horse owners warned to be vigilant after ‘marked increase in equine flu’ cases

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 13:26:27 +0000

Horse owners are urged to be vigilant, ensure vaccinations are up to date and report any new outbreaks of equine flu after a “marked increase in activity”.

The equine infectious disease surveillance (EIDS) team at Cambridge Vet School told H&H it is continuing to report cases and outbreaks; equine flu has been reported from 14 different locations in 11 English counties in the three weeks since the beginning of April.

“This is a marked increase in flu activity compared to the first three months of 2026, when the group were made aware of only two equine flu outbreaks,” an EIDS spokesperson said.

EIDS issued an alert on 10 April, of a “sudden rise in equine influenza outbreaks detected in the UK this month”.

The six cases recorded at that point were in six counties, five were in horses who had recently arrived; three from Europe including Ireland and the Netherlands.

By 17 April, nine cases had been reported in total; the EIDS team said: “A steady rise in diagnosed outbreaks is evident over the first three weeks of April indicating accelerating transmission. Although the fourth week currently shows fewer cases, this likely reflects reporting delays, and early indications suggest the upward trend may continue.”

Information is on the EIDS website

EIDS keeps its website updated and horse owners can check cases nationally or by area; the counties in which cases have been reported since 1 April are Berkshire (one), Cambridgeshire (two), Gloucestershire (one), Hampshire (two), Kent (two), Lincolnshire, Shropshire, Suffolk, Surrey and Warwickshire (one in each) and North Yorkshire (one).

The two Kent cases were on the same premises and although the two North Yorkshire cases were reported nearly three weeks apart, they were confirmed a week apart.

It is too early to determine whether this week’s reports indicate a further increase in cases as there is always a delay in reporting owing to the time for owners to call the vet, the disease to be diagnosed and the report made.

But “EIDS continue to urge vigilance and encourage horse owners and vets to investigate signs of respiratory disease in the horses under their care and in particular to promptly report to us when they have positive diagnoses of equine influenza (or other infections such as equine herpes virus) so we can continue to monitor progression of spread in the UK,” the spokesperson said.

Owners with concerns about flu are advised to contact the vet; vets with concerns about suspected or confirmed cases can call the EIDS advice line on 01223 766496.

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Horse & Hound’s definitive guide to equine vaccinations

Carol Phillips — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 09:29:39 +0000

This article has been edited and approved by Karen Coumbe MRCVS, H&H’s veterinary advisor since 1991.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

If you aren’t sure about what vaccinations your horse needs, when they should be given and how often, then Horse & Hound’s definitive guide contains everything you need to know

There are a number of vaccinations for horses available to help protect your horse’s health. These include equine flu, tetanus, equine herpes virus (EHV) and equine rotavirus and strangles. Unfortunately a 2019 field trial of a vaccine to protect against grass sickness proved inconclusive.

Only healthy horses should be vaccinated. If your horse is showing any signs of being unwell, discuss this with your vet prior to any vaccine being given. It is recommended that a horse is given a couple of quiet days after being vaccinated, with only light work and turnout. A horse should not be worked hard or made to sweat as they may be feeling below par or a little sore at the site of the injection.

A small percentage of horses experience a reaction after being vaccinated. If your horse appears unwell then speak to your vet for advice. If your horse has previously had a reaction then discuss it with the vet prior to any future vaccinations being given.

All vaccination records should be kept up to date in the horse’s passport document.

What vaccinations does a horse need?

The most common vaccinations given to horses in the UK are for equine flu and tetanus. Equine flu vaccination is compulsory for horses competing in affiliated competitions and is recommended for all horses. Breeding stock should also be vaccinated for equine herpes virus.

How often does a horse need vaccinations?

Most governing bodies of equestrian sports require annual equine flu vaccinations after the initial course is completed. The FEI requires more frequent boosters. It is advised that owners of leisure horses also arrange yearly boosters.

Vaccines against tetanus are typically given to horses every other year.

The primary vaccination course for equine herpes virus in non-pregnant horses involves two vaccinations four to six weeks apart, followed by booster vaccines every six months. Pregnant mares are typically vaccinated at five, seven and nine months of gestation to reduce the risk of abortion associated with EHV.

Why you should vaccinate your horse?

“Equine vaccinations are important to prevent your horse from contracting nasty diseases, particularly contagious diseases such as equine flu,” explains Wolverhampton vet Sue Taylor.

“Horse owners often say that their horse doesn’t go anywhere and so doesn’t need to be vaccinated, but if your horse is on a stable yard alongside horses who do compete, there is a chance that those competition horses could bring back a virus.

“Herd immunity is a concept that owners should be aware of too. If there is a yard full of vaccinated horses, it provides a kind of ‘wall’ to flu and other viruses. It can’t pass on very successfully as vaccinated horses limit the amount of virus that is shed. Whereas if your horse is unvaccinated, they’ll catch it and snot virulent virus all over the place, making it more likely to be caught by other horses — even vaccinated horses can present with mild signs. The higher the vaccination percentage in the overall population, the less opportunities there are to infect horses.

“Also, owners of competition horses should be aware that an up-to-date vaccination record is a requirement of many sporting governing bodies for horses competing under their rules.”

Every horse should be vaccinated against equine flu. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Equine flu (influenza) vaccination for horses

What is equine flu?

Influenza is a viral infection that affects the respiratory system resulting in a high fever, runny nose and coughing. Though rarely fatal, it can be a very debilitating disease that can take a considerable amount of time for horses to recover from. A major outbreak occurred in the UK during 2019 mainly affected unvaccinated animals, although some vaccinated horses also showed clinical signs.

Which horses need a flu vaccination?

Every horse should be vaccinated against equine flu. It is a requirement for competition horses to have up-to-date protection under the rules of most governing bodies.

Equine flu vaccination schedule

The first one is typically given around five months old, second one about four weeks later (21-60 days), then again around six months (120-180 days), followed by an annual booster. If you miss the window for these vaccinations or an annual booster, you will likely have to start the course again to comply with affiliated competition rules (check the rules of your governing body).

British Dressage, British Showjumping, British Eventing and British Riding Clubs require annual boosters. Horses competing under FEI rules must have been vaccinated within six months, plus up to 21 days, of a competition, but cannot have been vaccinated within seven days of arriving at a competition venue.

The flu vaccine is the only one that the FEI insists all horses taking part in international competitions have. From 1 January 2026, flu vaccinations must be recorded digitally in the FEI HorseApp, as well as in the horse’s passport. Vets must enter the vaccination details on the day it is administered. There is a transition period running until 30 June 2026 during which no sanctions will be issued, but from 1 July 2026 missing or incorrect digital records may result in fines.

The British Horseracing Authority’s windows between the first, second and third vaccines are 21-60 days, then 120-180 days, followed by six monthly boosters. In all cases, horses should not attend competitions within seven days of receiving a vaccine.

Other relevant info

Only healthy horses should be vaccinated for flu. If your horse has a temperature, cough or is unwell in any way, make your vet aware before he vaccinates your horse with flu, as the vaccine could make him more ill.

Tetanus vaccination for horses

What is tetanus?

Tetanus is caused by the production of endotoxins by the bacteria Clostridium tetani and is often fatal in horses. The spores of the bacteria are found in soil and enters the tissues via wounds. Deep puncture wounds are particularly dangerous as they provide an ideal site for infection.

Which horses need the tetanus vaccination?

Every horse is susceptible to tetanus due to the nature of the disease.

Tetanus vaccination schedule

A primary course of two vaccinations given four to six weeks apart, followed by a booster 12 months later. Subsequent vaccinations can be given at two yearly intervals. Foals will receive antibodies from their mother’s colostrum, but many are also given tetanus anti-toxin shortly after birth too.

Vaccination for tetanus is usually started at five months old and is often given as a combination vaccine with equine flu.

Other relevant info

You can get lumps or unwell horses occasionally after vaccination, but it is usually from a combined flu/tetanus vaccination rather than a sole tetanus injection.

Equine herpes virus (EHV) vaccination for horses

What is equine herpes virus?

There are five types of equine herpes virus, but EHV-1 and EHV-4 are the most clinically important and they are the only types that can be vaccinated against. EHV-1 and EHV-4 can cause a flu-like respiratory infection in horses, but may also cause abortion in pregnant mares and severe neurological disease. The effectiveness of the EHV vaccine against the neurological form of the disease is unclear.

Which horses need an EHV vaccine?

Any horse can have the herpes vaccine, but it is particularly important for breeding mares — many big studs will insist a mare is vaccinated before being allowed to foal there.

EHV vaccination schedule

The first vaccine can be given at five months old with the second vaccine at four to six weeks later, followed by a booster every six months. To provide effective immunity against abortion caused by EHV-1 and EHV-4 a course of three vaccinations should be given to a mare during her fifth, seventh and ninth months of pregnancy.

Other relevant info

There is a lot of virus shed in the aborted foetus’s fluid so surrounding mares can potentially catch the disease from breathing in the virus. The vaccine doesn’t always prevent the mare from aborting, but it can limit the amount of the virus that she passes when giving birth.

Equine rotavirus vaccination for horses

Pregnant mares are vaccinated against equine rotavirus to protect their foals from suffering diarrhoea or illness caused by the virus. Vaccines are given in the eighth, ninth, and 10th months of pregnancy in order that the antibodies can be transferred to the foal via the mare’s colostrum (first milk). Please contact your vet for more information.

New strangles vaccine

In 2004, a strangles vaccine called Equilis StrepE was launched, but unfortunately, three years later, it was withdrawn due to “quality control issues”.

Over a decade later, and a new protein-based strangles vaccine Strangvac has been developed by a group of scientists from the Animal Health Trust (AHT), the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, the Karolinska Institute and Intervacc AB, to prevent equines from contracting the highly contagious disease.

Trials were carried out on 16 horses, 13 of which were protected from strangles after being given the vaccine, and none showed signs of adverse reactions. The vaccine was made available to vets in the UK in 2022.

Strangles is caused by a bacteria called Streptococcus equi, which causes large pus-filled abscesses in a horse’s throat and neck. An estimated 600 outbreaks of strangles occur each year in the UK alone, so the development of the new vaccine will benefit horse health world-wide. Please contact your vet for more information.

Reactions to vaccines

“Some horses can have a reaction to their vaccination,” says Sue Taylor. “In some cases it is the injection itself that causes the reaction, not the vaccine. Vets shouldn’t swab the area of the vaccine injection because there is a risk that the antiseptic can deactivate the virus. If you have a very dirty horse, there is the risk that the needle will take bacteria in with it, causing an infection and abscess.

“I usually inject vaccines into the brisket (chest) which is often a cleaner part of the horse and if they do react, it drains well. A lot of people inject in the neck but if the horse reacts, it is a difficult area for the fluid to drain from, and the horse can find it difficult to put its neck down to eat and drink, and certainly can’t be ridden.

“If you have a very hairy horse, it might be advisable to clip a patch of hair with clippers or scissors to minimise the risk of dirt being taken in with the needle, or ensure the horse is clean in the area he is being injected.

“If they have a history of reactions, speak to your vet about placing the injection in his chest, and discuss the vaccine itself. In some cases, it is the carrier of the vaccine that causes a reaction, although this is much less likely now with modern vaccine technology. If you know that your horse is prone to reacting to a certain vaccine, tell your vet so that he can organise an alternative next time.”

Additional reporting by Stephanie Bateman

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Governing body moves from six-month to annual flu vaccinations

Becky Murray — Sat, 20 Dec 2025 11:25:45 +0000

Horses and ponies competing in British Eventing (BE) national competitions next year will no longer need to have a six-monthly flu vaccination, as the organisation moves back to annual boosters.

On 15 December BE announced that six-monthly vaccinations would no longer be required from 1 January 2026. The move brings BE in line with other British governing bodies including British Showjumping (BS), British Dressage (BD) and British Riding Clubs, which all require 12-month boosters.

“The decision to move to annual vaccinations for national competitions followed careful discussion with our owners and riders, alongside guidance from our veterinary team,” BE chief executive Rosie Williams told H&H.

“We also reviewed approaches taken by other governing bodies, including BD and BS, to ensure our rules remain appropriate, consistent and evidence-led. Horse welfare remains at the heart of everything we do, and this change reflects a balanced approach that supports both equine health and our members.”

The 2026 eventing season begins on the weekend of 7-8 March at Poplar Park. BE members have been reminded that regular vaccination checks will take place at events, and sanctions may apply if vaccination records are not compliant.

“Please ensure your horse’s vaccination record is up to date before competing,” said a BE spokesperson.

For those competing in international competitions and/or stabling in FEI stables, six-monthly vaccinations still apply under FEI rules; a booster must have been given no more than six months and 21 days prior to competing. A vaccination should not have been given within seven days of the competition or entry into FEI stables.

In February 2019 BE was among the governing bodies to implement six-monthly vaccinations during a major UK equine flu outbreak which led to the cancellation of some competitions and racing fixtures. At the time the Animal Health Trust reported a new strain of flu had caused the outbreak, which continued to cause problems throughout the year.

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Disease experts call for ‘vital’ return to six-monthly flu jabs for horses

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 20 Nov 2022 20:21:04 +0000

Owners must be encouraged to vaccinate horses every six months against equine influenza (EI) for “optimal” protection, as vaccine supplies return to normal.

Following the resolution of a shortage of vaccinations, reported by H&H this summer and autumn, and a recent increase in cases of equine flu in the UK, the Equine Veterinary Journal (EVJ) has published a report reviewing the science behind flu vaccination schedules, “in particular the replacement of annual boosters with a mandatory bi-annual vaccination programme”.

Mandatory flu vaccination was introduced in most competitive equestrian disciplines some 40 years ago, since when the scale and numbers of outbreaks have in general been relatively small.

But outbreaks such as those in the UK in 1989, 2003 and 2019 have “demonstrated EI’s epidemic potential, even in vaccinated horse populations”.

In the article Equine influenza bi-annual boosters: what does the evidence tell us? epidemiologists Victoria Colgate and Richard Newton “discuss what has been learnt from previous outbreaks and explain the evidence from mathematical models to show why bi-annual boosters are beneficial”.

“Epidemiological data from previous natural EI outbreaks have repeatedly demonstrated the impermanent nature of the protection provided by vaccination, and observational field studies repeatedly highlight the potential for 12-monthly boosters to leave a vulnerable immunity gap at both the individual animal and population level,” an EVJ spokesman said.

“Mathematical models of EI transmission confirm that six-monthly rather than annual EI booster vaccinations are preferable to establish and maintain effective population level immunity to EI.”

The article adds that ideally, vaccine strains should be kept updated to ensure the most relevant disease strains are included but “this is a slow and expensive process for equine vaccine manufacturers”.

“In the absence of updated vaccine strains, bi-annual vaccination is strongly recommended to help compensate for antigenic drift between vaccine and circulating EI viral strains,” the spokesman said.

The authors added: “The equine industry must surely remain resolute and guided by scientific principles. The clear evidence from experimental, epidemiological and mathematical modelling studies shows why we must encourage clients to revert to a schedule of bi-annual boosters.

“We must also remind horse owners that animals already on six-monthly vaccination regimes were best positioned for the vaccine shortage with a built-in tolerance in their vaccination schedule; their levels of immunological protection would not be expected to decline to susceptible levels, even with a slight delay before being re-vaccinated.”

H&H reported during the vaccine shortage that the FEI and other bodies had relaxed the six-month vaccination requirement. This was as the middle-aged competition horses concerned were more likely to have built-up immunity from frequent immunisation, and the vaccines could be saved for the more vulnerable equids.

“Although the recent EI vaccine shortage has necessitated a temporary relaxation of competition vaccine schedules, we must now renew the message that six-monthly boosters are optimal and necessary,” said EVJ editor Celia Marr.

The governing bodies in the UK have not yet announced their flu vaccination rules for 2023.

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Equine flu vaccination shortage remedied – as multiple outbreaks occur

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 14:53:19 +0000

The equine flu vaccination shortage in the UK is thought to have been remedied – as recent outbreaks show the need for disease control measures.

H&H reported this summer and autumn that there were fears of a shortage, owing to issues experienced by a supplier. But the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) told H&H it is expected that the vaccination that was temporarily unavailable will become available next week, and there should already be enough here as alternative vaccines have been imported from the US.

But in recent days, a number of cases of equine flu have been reported, some linked to a Shetland pony sale in Worcestershire (16-18 October) and others in horses recently imported from Ireland. The latter include “multiple cases” reported this morning (4 November).

BEVA president David Rendle told H&H the cases show the importance of vaccination, and of biosecurity measures applied to horses arriving on yards.

“There was no requirement for vaccination prior to entry to the Shetland sale and some of the unvaccinated ponies that attended the sale developed ‘flu after they returned home and have spread infection to stablemates,” Mr Rendle said.

“We are aware of six outbreaks spread across England, Scotland and Wales. The breed society has acted very responsibly and has cancelled further events limiting the potential for further spread. The Shetland Pony Stud Book Society has very responsibly and promptly alerted its membership and those who attended the sale. Credit must also go to the organisers of The North and Mid Wales Shetland Pony Show for their prompt action, which will be likely to have prevented onward transmission of equine influenza.”

Mr Rendle stressed that these outbreaks are a reminder of the importance of vaccinating horses who mix with others, and those at home who come into contact with them.

“It is the unvaccinated ponies that have spread the infection onward and the unvaccinated ponies that have become sick,” he said. “We are often complacent about flu and forget that prior to vaccination being compulsory for competition, outbreaks were far more common. It is a potentially fatal condition that we cannot afford to take for granted.

“The recent vaccine shortage was very unfortunate but as long as people get back to vaccinating at six- to 12-month intervals (six months for horses that are competing and mixing regularly, 12 for lower-risk horses) there will be no lasting harm. In increasingly challenging economic times, it might be tempting to consider saving the cost of vaccination but this cost is tiny compared to the cost of having to treat a horse with ‘flu, the cost to the industry of dealing with an influenza epidemic, and most importantly, the welfare cost to the horse of the disease itself.”

On 28 October, the Shetland Pony Stud Book Society said: “The society has been asked to notify members of confirmed cases of equine influenza in Shetland ponies purchased from the sale at Worcester on 18 October. If you purchased a pony please be vigilant and seek veterinary advice if you have any concerns.”

Competition horses’ six-month flu boosters out owing to vaccine shortage

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 09 Sep 2022 17:59:18 +0000

The FEI has approved a temporary change to its veterinary rules, removing the need for six-monthly equine flu vaccination, in response to the shortage of vaccines.

H&H has reported on supply problems caused by an issue faced by manufacturer Boehringer Ingelheim, in light of which British governing bodies have temporarily changed their guidance.

At a meeting yesterday (8 September) the FEI board agreed to extend the booster interval from six to 12 months, “in combination with increased disease surveillance and a higher level of general biosecurity”.

To help fulfil the caveat, FEI vet rules concerning testing horses for equine herpes virus (EHV-1) will be expanded to include testing for equine flu.

“In their review of the potential impact of the vaccine shortage, the FEI epidemiology group found that even a short interruption to vaccine supplies could have a significant impact on several types of sport, breeding and leisure horses,” said FEI veterinary director Göran Akerström.

“However, the horses with the highest risk of developing a disease, including life-threatening conditions, are horses aged up to four that do not yet have a strong immune defence against equine influenza. In particular, equine sectors with young horses, such as breeding and horseracing, could face serious horse welfare problems if vaccines are not available to them. Old, retired horses could also be at a high risk.

“This is why the FEI veterinary epidemiology working group has advised that middle-aged equines, like FEI horses that are at least six years old and that have been vaccinated on a regular basis, are considered better protected because of a longer vaccination history. The group was in agreement that a temporary extension of the booster intervals would not put the FEI population of horses in danger of developing disease, while making vaccines available to the more high-risk equine groups in the short term. The equestrian community now needs to work together to mitigate a very challenging shortage of vaccines.

“The extension is only a temporary solution and only possible because FEI horses are well protected, having been vaccinated every six to 12 months, often for many years. We will revert to the six-month booster interval as soon as the vaccine availability is back to normal as we need to continue building on this collective immunity for the long term.”

As is the case under the usual rule, horses must not have had a booster within seven days of arrival at a competition. The FEI said it will monitor the situation and provide regular updates.

Equine flu vaccination deferrals advised as vaccine shortage affects UK first

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 07 Sep 2022 06:34:11 +0000

Changes to governing bodies’ vaccination requirements are among measures adopted as authorities attempt to mitigate the ongoing equine flu vaccine shortage.

H&H reported last month that there was the prospect of a shortage, owing to a “significant pan-European logistical problem” being experienced by manufacturer Boehringer Ingelheim.

The impact of this has hit the UK first, British Equestrian’s emergency response group (ERG) has confirmed, and some vet practices are already out of stock.

“Early indications from [Boehringer] are that the issues will continue until the end of October at the very earliest,” a BEF spokesman said.

“Working closely with [the British Equine Veterinary Association] BEVA, the BEF ERG can offer temporary guidelines to help minimise the impact of the shortage for a limited period while preserving the health of our national equine herd.”

BEVA’s advice is based on the risk bracket each horse falls into; fully vaccinated adults who mix rarely are at the lowest risk, those up to the age of four who mix frequently are most at risk.

It is recommended that owners of leisure horses in the lowest-risk categories whose annual boosters are due during the shortage should defer for up to three months, to a maximum of 15 months between doses. Any decision to defer should be in consultation with each horse’s vet.

“BEVA has established that there is evidence horses are still protected at 15 months, even if this situation is far from ideal, and the protection isn’t as great as it was at 12 months,” a BEF spokesman said. “Having had a good history of vaccination in the past is likely to help.”

Anyone who does defer vaccination should book a booster within nine months, so the horse has still had two jabs in two years. Passports of horses affected should be signed and dated by the vet to document the delay.

Owners who plan to affiliate to a governing body or travel to a venue with a 12-month vaccination requirement, compete in FEI events or run the horse under Rules are advised to keep to the 12-month requirement.

Further guidance from the FEI on international competition is expected this week, but a different approach has been agreed for competition horses. There is a higher level of immunity among such horses owing to vaccination rules, but they mix more frequently, and there is a need to align with the FEI and the racing industry’s rules.

The British Horse Society, British Riding Clubs, the Pony Club, the Riding for the Disabled Association, Association of British Riding Schools and the Showing Council will permit three-month deferrals followed by a booster within nine months.

Six-monthly vaccination was required by British Dressage, British Eventing, the British Horseball Association and British Carriagedriving, and strongly recommended by British Showjumping. These have been put on hold, and annual vaccination is still required.

British Equestrian Vaulting and Endurance GB (EGB) retain the 12-month requirement, but if shortages prevent vaccination, with prior approval, EGB will allow a three-month deferral.

Anyone who is not affiliated but whose horses frequently mix with others should consult their vet.

Celia Marr, chair of the BEF’s infectious diseases advisory group, said: “We find ourselves in a very difficult situation on how best to mitigate the risks posed by this vaccine shortage. However, the ERG is working collaboratively within BEF’s member bodies and with BEVA and [the British Horseracing Authority] BHA, and we hope we have established guidelines which allow vets to effectively manage supplies within their practices while preserving the established herd immunity amongst our vaccinated population.

“We know the devastating impact an equine flu epidemic can have and must continue to work together to prevent that. Moving the low and lowest risk and some medium-risk horses to a 15- and nine-month programme, while not perfect, is a good solution to ensure we have enough vaccine in the country to protect our most vulnerable horses, manage the equine influenza risk and prevent as many horses as possible from having to restart their vaccination course. We’re grateful to the member bodies for working with us to manage the situation.”

BEF CEO Jim Eyre added: “The ERG, our member bodies, BEVA and BHA have acted decisively in what is an ever-changing situation, which we’ll continue to monitor closely and manage. We want to reassure horse owners in the UK that deferring their booster for three months will give protection to healthy, adult horses with a good vaccination history and following with the next booster within nine months, so the horse effectively has ‘two in two’, is important.

“We’re grateful for everyone’s immediate support and actions in a bid to manage this crisis. The ERG will continue monitor the situation with member bodies and BEVA and, while the end of October has been indicated for supply issues to be resumed, we will make plans under the assumption that this could continue. We will continue to meet until normal vaccine supplies are resumed and six and/or 12-month boosters can be reinstated for all vaccinated horses.”

‘We’re trying to make sure everyone’s protected’: experts working on equine flu vaccination shortage

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 17:30:24 +0000

Owners have been urged not to panic, nor change their practices, as experts monitor the potential impact of a shortage of equine flu vaccinations.

The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA), British Equestrian (BEF) and the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) are working together on the issue. The organisations had been aware of “minor interruptions to the supply” of the vaccines this year, but a “significant, pan-European logistical problem being experienced by [manufacturer] Boehringer Ingelheim has raised the prospect of a further reduction in supplies in the coming months”.

David Rendle, chair of BEVA’s health and medicines committee, told H&H there are so many variables around supply, and what manufacturers can do – it takes about six months from starting the process to get vaccine to the vets – it is difficult to make solid predictions on when supplies will return to normal.

“But everyone is working on it,” he said. “There had been low-grade supply issues throughout this year but as a result of a recent issue, Boehringer Ingelheim hasn’t been able to supply any vaccines to the wholesalers since June or July. It was expected they’d come back in stock about now, which would have been fine, but now it’s clear they can’t rectify the issue and won’t be able to supply the market until the end of October.”

Mr Rendle said the key message is that owners should not panic, nor try to arrange vaccinations early.

“Please don’t think ‘I’d better get mine done now’,” he said. “Please be responsible and consider the bigger picture. Practices and wholesalers will still have stock but there will be less influenza vaccine available, and it’s about planning now and looking at maintaining protection for everyone.”

He added that older horses, who have good immunity built up from previous jabs, will be at less risk than young horses that have not had any vaccines, who need to be prioritised to ensure they get the primary courses.

“Vets will be risk-assessing,” Mr Rendle said.

“For example, although there is compelling scientific evidence for the increased protection that comes from six-monthly vaccination as required for some competition, it may be that if people aren’t mixing those horses and aren’t competing, they could postpone the six-monthly booster as their horses are at less risk than those who need to start their courses or have an annual booster”.

“This is clearly a very difficult situation as these vaccinations are so important in preventing disease outbreaks,but it’s about working together and being responsible to maximise the protection for everyone in difficult circumstances,” Mr Rendle said.

“I am sure horse owners will understand that vets are in a very difficult situation that is not of their making and will be supportive of the difficult decisions vets may have to make if there is further disruption of vaccine supply.”

Marc Laemmer, equine business head at Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, said: “We are currently experiencing a European-wide supply issue relating to our equine influenza and influenza-tetanus vaccines. This has been caused by unexpected issues following the implementation of a technology upgrade and is not a product or quality issue. This means that some vet practices will have difficulty obtaining sufficient influenza vaccines and there may be a shortage in the UK market. We understand the importance of these vaccines to equine welfare, and we are continuing to work tirelessly to find a solution so that we can return to normal supply as soon as possible.”

BEF CEO Jim Eyre added: “A meeting of our equine infectious disease advisory group has been held and we will work with member bodies to monitor the situation carefully. If it becomes necessary, we will collectively work to devise practical solutions for dealing with any supply difficulties.”

Amanda Melvin, equine business manager at MSD Animal Health, said: “Based on prior demand, MSD’s equine vaccines Equilis Prequenza and Equilis Prequenza Te are in full supply. MSD has taken steps to protect as many horses as possible at this time. We will continue to supply existing customers with the available MSD stock on ‘allocation’ and, where possible, to allocate stock to additional customers. Allocations are being made to our veterinary customers based on their historical demand which we believe is the most efficient way to manage the available supplies.”

Rebecca Cabrejas, equine business unit manager at Zoetis, said: “Demand for our vaccines currently exceeds what we can supply. Whilst we have adequate stocks to fulfil current customers’ orders unfortunately, we are not in a position to be able to supply new customers at this time. We will continue to work with BEVA to limit the impact of the current shortages.”

James Given, director of equine health and welfare for the BHA, said the BHA is monitoring the situation and will issue updates “in due course”.

We all have a role in preventing spread of equine disease: new guide released

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 20:01:59 +0000

MITIGATING the real risk of spreading equine disease and so protecting our horses’ welfare is a team effort, in which we all have a role, experts agree.

British Equestrian’s (BEF) equine infectious disease action group (EIDAG) has released a guide for its member bodies and organisers, and for general use, on reducing the risk of transmission.

Access the guide online

The group of nine volunteers was set up in autumn 2019, the year of the major equine flu outbreak in the UK, and comprises experts in equine infectious disease and medicine.

“The recent EHV [equine herpes virus] outbreak in Europe clearly demonstrated what is possible with a collaborative approach between horse owners, member bodies, veterinary practitioners, industry advisers and organisers,” said group chair Celia Marr. “We managed the situation promptly so there were no linked cases on home soil, but without us working together, the situation could have been much worse.

“We hope the guidance notes are the catalyst for instilling the principles of biosecurity and their importance for all who interact with equines, be they grassroots or professionals. Getting the key messages across, education and practical advice is crucial to reducing transmission risk and keeping disease in our equine population in check.”

Based on compliance and practices in place, events can run at gold, silver or bronze standard, or a combination, to show potential participants their level of biosecurity.

The guide also contains information on a number of diseases present in Britain.

BEF chief executive Jim Eyre said: “On behalf of the equine industry, I’d like to thank Celia and members of the EIDAG. Their selfless work and dedication towards producing this document and assistance during the EHV outbreak in Europe is commendable. This document paves the way for better biosecurity and education for all involved in equestrian activity and will only help to keep our horses safe from disease. I look forward to working with the group towards the next step.”

Dr Marr added: “Infectious disease is with us all time, but the welfare of our equines and mitigating the risk of transmission is a team effort. Responsibility lies with all of us in the equine community to work together and play a part.”

The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) worked with the BEF on the guide, which will provide consistency in advice and protocols.

BEVA health and medicines committee chair David Rendle told H&H: “Equestrian competitions and gatherings present a major threat to equine health and welfare, as highlighted by the recent outbreaks of EHV in Spain that spread across mainland Europe.

“These guidelines facilitated the rapid response that helped to protect UK horses during that outbreak. Implementation of the guidelines will reduce the risk and potential impact of future disease outbreaks.”

Vet offers free jabs and wormers to riding schools hit hard by lockdown

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 21 Feb 2021 07:06:34 +0000

A veterinary practice in Wales is offering free visits, vaccinations and wormers to riding schools hit hard by lockdown restrictions.

Abbey Equine Clinic in Abergavenny, south Wales, is offering a package to its clients, with the support of pharmaceutical companies.

County council-registered riding schools that are clients of the practice will each be given a voucher for a free visit, three equine flu and tetanus vaccinations and three wormers, to be used this month or next.

A spokesman for the practice said it wanted to do something to help its riding school clients during a very tough time.

“Most of us have happy memories of learning to ride on riding school ponies as children,” added clinic director Emma Jones MRCVS.

“Running the practice throughout lockdown has been hard, but nothing compared to the financial strain these riding establishments have been under, with all the overheads and none of the income. Organising this support has been something practical we can do to help.”

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H&H has reported on how badly riding schools have been affected by the coronavirus lockdown restrictions during the past year, especially the current one as they have all their usual winter costs but no income, and Abbey hopes measures like this scheme may help them survive.

The spokesman said: “This was only possible with the generous support of Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, Chanelle and Vet Plus, thank you.”

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus there are options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as a range of other benefits.

Equine flu boosters: lockdown amnesty comes to an end

Becky Murray — Mon, 05 Oct 2020 17:27:39 +0000

Competitors have been reminded of equine flu vaccination requirements as a lockdown amnesty on six-monthly boosters comes to an end.

In July British Eventing (BE) and British Dressage (BD) announced an amnesty on the requirement for six-month boosters as sport restarted. BE said at the time it was aware some members would not have been able to have their horses vaccinated during lockdown, and BD said a temporary amnesty would allow members time to bring their vaccinations up to date.

The BD amnesty ended on 30 September, so all horses competing must have had a booster within six months and 21 days of competition.

The BE amnesty will end at the end of this month (31 October). A spokesman for BE said the organisation is reminding anyone that competes with BE after this date, including those taking part in BE jump training or the arena eventing series starting on 8 November, will be required to follow the vaccination rules as per the members’ handbook.

The rule states that in order to compete a horse must have been vaccinated within six months and 21 days of the competition – but no injection should be given seven days before the competition.

“If your horse has missed the annual vaccination renewal date (i.e. 12 calendar months after the last recorded vaccination in the passport) then you will need to restart the course of injection before competing,” said the BE spokesman. “This means you need to have had a first and second vaccination within no less than 21 days of each other and seven clear days after the second vaccination before the date of competition.”

Although annual vaccinations are the requirements for horses competing in British Showjumping, the governing body “strongly recommends” six-monthly boosters.

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Equine flu vaccinations: rules clarified as sport resumes

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Equine flu vaccinations: rules clarified as sport resumes

Becky Murray — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 13:41:26 +0000

As British Eventing (BE), British Showjumping (BS) and British Dressage (BD) competitions resume in England, the governing bodies have confirmed their equine flu vaccination rules, which require all horses to have had their annual equine flu vaccination, but the requirement for six-monthly boosters is on hold.

British Eventing announced an amnesty on six-month boosters until 31 October.

“We are aware some members will not have been able to have their horses vaccinated during lockdown,” said a BE spokesman.

“On the advice of our chief veterinary officer that the risk of equine influenza is currently low, we will have an amnesty on the requirement for a booster within six months prior to the date of competition, effective from 1 July to the end of October.”

The spokesman added that horses competing in national classes during the 2020 season must carry up to date annual vaccinations, so if their annual booster has been missed, they will be required to restart the vaccination process.

“If your horse has missed the annual vaccination renewal date (i.e. 12 months after the last vaccination) you will need to restart the course before competing,” he said. “This means the horse needs to have had a first and second vaccination with no less than 21 days between each other and seven clear days after the second vaccination, before the date of competition,” he said.

“The requirement for horses to have had the most recent booster within six months and 21 days prior to the competition will return for the 2021 season.”

A spokesman for British Dressage (BD) said an amnesty on six-monthly boosters will apply until 30 September, to allow members time to bring their vaccinations up to date.

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“With horses not travelling during lockdown the risk of equine influenza is currently low, and expected to remain so during the summer months, but it is vitally important the requirement to have a vaccination within six months of competition is in place from 1 October onwards to provide adequate protection when competing in the autumn/winter period,” he said.

“This temporary amnesty applies to the six-monthly requirement only; all annual vaccinations must still be kept up to date. Unfortunately, if your horse has missed the 12-month vaccination renewal date, then you will need to restart the course before competing, in accordance with BD rules.”

BS chief executive Iain Graham told H&H while annual vaccinations are the requirement for horses competing in BS, the body “strongly recommends” six-monthly boosters.

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Equine flu vaccinations reminder one year after major outbreak

Lucy Elder — Sun, 02 Feb 2020 11:14:59 +0000

Are you up to date with the 2020 flu vaccination rules for your equestrian sport’s governing body? H&H is here to help...

Competitors are reminded to check flu vaccination rules as the spring competition season swings into view.

February marks a year since the 2019 equine flu outbreak, which temporarily halted racing and resulted in new regulations and practices to try to protect the UK’s horse population and prevent its spread.

Rules from 2019 have changed slightly for 2020 for many of the affiliated bodies.

British Eventing (BE) regulations now state horses must have had a booster within six months and 21 days, but should not receive a vaccination within seven days of a competition. Previously the rules were six months and that no relevant injection be given on the day of an event.

British Dressage (BD) rules are the same, although the organisation has introduced a dispensation process for horses who experience severe reactions. The dispensation is for six-monthly boosters only, not for the minimum vaccination requirements, with which all members must comply. It involves an application form, to be completed with a vet, which will be reviewed by a specialist panel and if granted, dispensation will last for 12 months.

British Showjumping’s (BS) 2020 handbook states boosters must be given within a year and at least seven days prior to the competition date. In addition, individual venues hosting BS competitions may also have six-monthly requirements.

For the 2019/20 season, British Team Chasing (BTC) is continuing with the same approach as last spring, when it was recommended to event organisers and competitors that they should follow the latest recommendations of the British Equestrian Federation (BEF).

“As part of this advice, BTC continues to urge all horse owners to ensure their vaccination records are up to date, and that their horse benefits from a current vaccination against equine flu,” stated a BTC notice. “Where it has been more than six months since the last vaccination of a horse, BTC strongly recommends owners discuss a booster with their veterinary surgeon. No relevant injection may have been given within seven days of the day of competition.”

It also recommends a valid vaccination record accompanies the horse to all events and is made available to inspection where requested, with organisers reserving the right to prevent a horse from competing should this not be done.

The current British Horseracing Authority (BHA) regulations under Rules and in point-to-pointing will remain in place for 2020, with consultation taking place this year on whether these be changed for 2021.

“This follows a meeting of the European Horseracing Scientific Liaison Committee in early October, where proposed changes were agreed by the committee after considering advice from a number of experts in equine infectious disease,” states the latest advice from the British Horseracing Authority. “Other European racing jurisdictions will be carrying out similar consultations in 2020, with the aim of achieving harmonised vaccination requirements for racehorses across Europe.”

Currently, horses on racecourse property must have had a booster within nine months. The consultation is on whether this be reduced to six months.

If you compete under any other governing bodies, H&H recommends that you check their 2020 rulebook to ensure your horse’s vaccinations comply with their requirements.

How to protect your stable yard from infections H&H Plus

Andrea Oakes — Wed, 29 Jan 2020 09:00:09 +0000

Good yard hygiene practices are vital to help keep infectious disease at bay. Yet no matter how thorough your biosecurity plan, is it sufficiently robust to protect your horses from others that visit your property for lessons or other reasons?

The recent equine herpes virus (EHV-1) outbreak in Hampshire served as a stark reminder of the devastating potential of this disease, when four horses were put down after contracting the neurological strain.

Ideally, visitors to your yard will be scrupulous about their own yard biosecurity, maintaining flu vaccinations and keeping horses at home if there is any suspicion they are unwell. But a seemingly healthy animal may be incubating disease, however, bringing infection through your gates in Trojan Horse style. So what can you do?

While experts agree that yard lockdown (ceasing all movement in and out) is extreme if there is no known horse contact with affected premises, it makes sense to have ongoing precautions in place — not just against EHV, but to lessen the risk of other contagious diseases such as equine flu and strangles.

Beating bacteria

A familiar client arrives and unloads their horse for their lesson. Where’s the danger?

“Infectious disease can be spread by direct horse-to-horse contact and also indirectly, where bacteria are transferred via people’s hands or clothing, or tack or yard equipment,” says Richard Hepburn FRCVS, of B&W Equine Vets. “EHV virus particles can live for seven days in an environment, although flu particles may only survive for three.

“The good news is that both are easily killed by disinfectant,” he adds, explaining that simple habits such as a squirt of antibacterial hand gel will help.

“Make sure people bring their own things and don’t borrow yours. Communal hosepipes can harbour viral particles and are a known source of infection spread at shows, so clients should bring buckets and ideally their own water supply. Otherwise, disinfect the hosepipe end regularly.

“Disinfecting the trailer or lorry after each journey is another sensible measure, although rarely done,” adds Richard. “While shared environments such as arenas are thought to be low risk, a quick once-over with a hand-held spray disinfectant is wise where a horse has slobbered on the fencing.”

Keep your distance

Visiting horses that stay overnight, or longer, should be stabled a sufficient distance from your own horses to reduce the chance of disease transmission.

“EHV is a reasonable starting point when considering an isolation protocol, as its consequences are typically the greatest,” says Richard, referring to the possible permanent neurological implications of the disease.

“While the herpes virus does not travel far by air, a good sneeze from an infected horse could send particles a considerable distance. The ideal physical separation would be around 30 metres — in a straight line — between them and your main stable block.

“The bacteria that cause strangles are larger in size and are more often spread by direct horse-to-horse contact,” he explains. “Equine flu virus particles, however, are dispersed by coughing as aerosolised droplets. In the 2007 Australian outbreak, they travelled up to two kilometres by air.”

A practical compromise, says Richard, is an isolation stable separated from the main block by as far as possible and facing a different direction — with separate kit for mucking out, grooming, feeding and watering, along with overalls, hand wash and a foot bath for the handler to use before touching other horses.

“We’ve perhaps become complacent about isolation, but it’s not difficult to be prepared with some common-sense measures,” he adds.

What the professionals do

“We sometimes have clients’ horses on site, but never for an overnight stay,” says event rider William Fox-Pitt. “I never touch a horse if I’m teaching and I don’t allow visitors to the yard to touch mine. If horses are coming, perhaps from overseas, we don’t work ours with them in the arena or on the gallops.

“If you know something’s brewing, you have to keep the outside world out,” adds William, who closed his yard during the last major equine flu outbreak.

“Routinely, during the season, we take every horse’s temperature daily — which has many times been a godsend — and have a strict policy of isolating all new arrivals in a separate four-box unit.”

Rebecca Hughes, who, with husband Gareth, teaches visiting riders at Hughes Dressage, also puts strict biosecurity measures into place.

“Our clients’ horses have no direct contact with ours,” she explains. “They access the indoor school through a separate door, without coming through the yard, and we have separate stables 50 metres away for those staying overnight.

“We also monitor our own horses’ temperatures daily, as part of our yard management strategy, to pick up early signs of infection.”

Ref Horse & Hound; 30 January 2020

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Calls for better basic biosecurity to prevent spread of disease H&H Plus

Becky Murray — Mon, 20 Jan 2020 18:15:51 +0000

Experts are calling for all owners to incorporating simple measures into their daily routine to help prevent the spread of disease, warning that biosecurity leaves ‘a lot to be desired’ at many yards

Owners who have become complacent about biosecurity must up their game to combat the real risk of infectious disease.

Following the equine herpes virus outbreak in Hampshire (news, 16 January) and more than 219 equine flu outbreaks in 2019, experts agree more can be done to reduce the risk of disease spread — and call for people not to forget about biosecurity when outbreaks are not prevalent.

David Rendle, specialist in equine internal medicine and member of the British Equine Veterinary Association’s health and medicines committee, told H&H biosecurity leaves “a lot to be desired” at many yards.

“We all are too complacent about the risk of infectious disease,” he said. “People think outbreaks will happen to someone else and that’s why they don’t take the precautions they should.

“The biggest risk is horses moving, not being quarantined, vaccinated or tested for disease. As a minimum we would like people to be more proactive in vaccinating. Faced with an outbreak everyone is inclined to vaccinate and take things seriously, but it’s soon forgotten.”

Mr Rendle said owners must travel horses responsibly.

“If they have concerns about their horse, or others on their yard, having an infection they should consider the greater good and not travel their horse to a competition or other premises,” he said.

World Horse Welfare chief executive Roly Owers told H&H the more steps people take, such as avoiding sharing buckets and tack, stopping horses coming into direct contact with others at shows, taking temperatures and isolating new arrivals, the more the risk of disease is reduced.

“The risk is very real and too many are not doing enough to protect the health — and therefore welfare — of horses,” he said.

“We cannot remove the threat of infectious disease so we have to be better at incorporating simple biosecurity measures into our daily routine. And never forget to work with vets regularly to challenge the measures we take to protect horses — the threat of disease is ever-changing, so we need to change too.”

British Equestrian Federation interim CEO Iain Graham agreed riders “could do better”.

“People are not vigilant enough and if there isn’t disease obviously there, guard drops and the extra effort isn’t put in,” he told H&H.

“Riders assume when they turn up at a competition that everyone’s horses are healthy — but they don’t know that.”

Mr Graham said steps taken by governing bodies, such as six-month vaccination requirements, are to reduce the risk of disease spread and protect venues.

“For venues it’s a real concern if business relies on horses attending; if doors have to shut they have no income. They have restrictions or requirements so we can continue to compete and move horses as safely as possible,” he said.

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Exemptions for horses that suffer serious reactions to flu vaccinations H&H Plus

Becky Murray — Sat, 14 Dec 2019 11:05:40 +0000

An exemption scheme for horses who suffer severe reactions to equine flu vaccinations has been launched – but owners have been reminded that six-monthly jabs are the “best defence” against the disease.

British Dressage (BD), which introduced a six-monthly vaccine requirement from 1 December, has agreed members may apply for dispensation if their horses have experienced reactions such as laminitis or neurological issues.

Owners must complete an application, signed by their vet, which will be assessed by an expert panel comprising British Equestrian Federation (BEF) director of equine sports science and medicine John McEwen, FEI veterinary committee chairman Jenny Hall, BEF director Jane Nixon MRCVS and European specialist in equine internal medicine Philip Ivens, of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.

The application costs £50 and if granted, lasts for 12 months.

BD member experience manager Rachel Smith told H&H the process had been agreed in consultation with the panel and said each application will be examined thoroughly.

“The six-month requirement was introduced with equine welfare at the forefront of the decision, but we know there are a small number of horses who do experience severe reactions,” she said.

“With concerns around welfare, we consulted extensively to see if there was a way we could have an exemption process which wouldn’t impact or undermine the new rule.”

Ms Smith said figures from the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) indicate that for every 10,000 vaccines administered, around five horses have a severe reaction.

“We’re expecting around a dozen horses will be exempt via the dispensation process. To date we’ve had one application,” she said.

A spokesman for the British Horse Racing Authority (BHA), which requires eight-monthly vaccinations, told H&H the BHA has “committed” to a consultation on vaccination rules in 2020 – and is aware of recommendations by the European Horserace Scientific Liaison Committee to make six-monthly vaccinations for racehorses mandatory from 2021, but added that no dispensations will be offered for horses who suffer reactions.

“Until this consultation is complete, the current vaccination requirements for all horses on racecourse property will remain in place,” he said.

“For the welfare and benefit of the entire racing herd, all racehorses must be vaccinated. It is exceptionally rare for thoroughbreds to have a severe reaction, and for horses who are known to react, the issue can be managed with sensible veterinary advice.”

A spokesman for British Riding Clubs (BRC), which introduced a six-month vaccine requirement for championships and qualifiers, told H&H there are no plans to introduce a dispensation, but said the matter will be discussed in detail at the BRC advisory committee meeting in the new year.

Richard Newton, director of epidemiology and disease surveillance at the Animal Health Trust (AHT), told H&H the AHT supports any decision made in the “best interest” of equine welfare, but added owners are “strongly encouraged” to adhere to scientific and veterinary advice and vaccinate every six months.

“Six-monthly vaccination remains the best defence against outbreaks of this highly infectious disease and is, we believe, a major factor in the number of flu outbreaks in the UK abating,” he said.

“We would urge any owner of a horse who experiences an adverse event after vaccination to report this to the vaccine manufacturer. Adverse events should also be reported to the VMD.”

Six-monthly flu jab exemptions for horses who suffer severe reactions

Becky Murray — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 17:59:34 +0000

Horses who have experienced a severe adverse reaction to the equine flu vaccination may be eligible for exemption from the six-monthly booster requirement in a new British Dressage (BD) scheme.

The move comes following concerns raised by members about the 2020 rule revision introducing a six-monthly vaccine requirement.

A spokesman for BD said the board had agreed and released a process allowing members to apply for dispensation to the rule.

“Following the introduction of the requirement of a vaccine booster within six months + 21 days, a number of members made contact to request a process to apply for exemption,” he said.

“It was reviewed and agreed in the best interests of equine welfare by the board. Members whose horses have experienced severe reactions (laminitis, neurological issues, off work for a week or more) may now apply for an exemption.”

A dispensation panel, which will consider each application, comprises four specialists: British Equestrian Federation (BEF) director of equine sports science and medicine John McEwen, FEI veterinary committee chairman Jenny Hall, BEF director Jane Nixon MRCVS and European specialist in equine internal medicine Philip Ivens, of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.

Applying for the dispensation costs £50 and owners must complete an application form along with their own vet’s signature. If granted, it lasts for 12 months and must be re-applied for annually.

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“The panel will meet in April and October each year. However as this is a new initiative, the panel will meet as soon as an adequate number of applications are received,” said the spokesman.

In a BD “ask the expert” online session on 4 December Dr Nixon said horses must have had the primary course of vaccinations and that even those granted dispensation must still be vaccinated annually.

“That is without question,” she said. “Between us, we would look carefully on welfare grounds at each individual situation as to whether or not you will be given dispensation for the six-monthly rule. We take this very seriously indeed and every case will be looked at according to the application.”

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Equine flu: how experts decided six-month boosters are the way forwards

Lucy Elder — Thu, 28 Nov 2019 17:25:51 +0000

An expert in the spread of diseases has explained what was learnt during the 2019 equine flu outbreak

The reasons the UK veterinary industry acted as it did in this year’s equine flu (EI) outbreak and the decision-making behind six-month booster requirements have been explained by an expert.

Dr Richard Newton, director of epidemiology and disease surveillance at the Animal Health Trust (AHT), spoke about what UK vets have learnt from the 2019 outbreak at an event at the British Racing School on 19 November.

The take-home messages were that despite advice, some horse owners are not either believing in or complying with the six-month booster recommendation.

Dr Newton said the strain responsible for the outbreaks this year, and the way it moved across Europe, were behind the decision to shut down racing in February.

“We were seeing a different picture emerging in Europe,” he said, explaining that the decision was not based on the situation in the UK alone and that vets were seeing clinical signs in vaccinated horses in Europe. “This is when the alarm bells rang.”

The strain was also different to the flu usually seen in the UK and Europe — this was Florida clade 1, as opposed to Florida clade 2.

“In 2019, we witnessed the largest epidemic in Britain and Europe in 30 years,” he said.

“What we hadn’t counted on, was the second wave taking off in April through May, which peaked in the last week of June. This made headlines and events started to take stock and were cancelled.

“A large proportion of the UK has had flu diagnoses at some point this year. There were also reports of airborne spread, which is the first in my time at the AHT.

“If we were being self-critical, we did fail to raise adequate awareness at the crucial time. Some of our messages were missed or ignored, despite our urgings or reminders.”

He added factors that facilitated spread of the disease included low vaccine coverage, certain events not requiring vaccination, a lack of preventative measures (such as isolation) for arrivals or horses returning from events, and the spread of anti-vaccine rhetoric on social media.

He said there was also confusion “even among vets, let alone owners” as to why there were so many variations of the flu vaccination rules between the sporting governing bodies.

The European Horserace Scientific Liason Committee has proposed new harmonised vaccine rules in European racing from 2021. The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and other individual racing organisations will liaise on these in 2020, while the British Equestrian Federation and its associated disciplines are looking to follow the BHA’s lead.

Dr Newton also went through studies that informed the six-month recommendation, and explained how maths helped experts come to this conclusion.

This is because statisticians are able to run many variations of outbreak scenarios against the immunity levels of the vaccine given at different intervals to find out when the most effective time is for a booster.

“What we repeatedly saw is that when you vaccinate at six months, rather than 12, you see smaller outbreaks and sometimes no outbreaks at all,” he said. “We are trying to look forwards and prevent future happenings.

“We need to get smart as to how we use these vaccinations at the moment if we are going to protect our horses from flu.”

Dr Newton added temperature monitoring is vital in early diagnosis and urged owners to get into the habit of this. He also stressed that as flu is a non-notifiable disease, it is up to the industry, including individual owners, “to protect itself”.

“Temperature, with many infectious diseases, is the first indicator that you have a problem,” he said. “If you get into good habits and routines and know what normal is for a horse, then if you do see that spike, that is the earliest sign you can get.

“If you start to see a spike in [healthy horses], that’s when alarm bells should start ringing. I think it is good basic biosecurity, health monitoring. If horse owners all regularly monitor their horses twice a day, record it in a diary or on a spreadsheet, then you can see a pattern. That will pay dividends as it will indicate when a horse has a problem.”

Knowing your horse’s temperature was a major theme of the event and leading US vet Dr Alan Dorton explained how valuable this is.

He spoke about how he uses the new EquiTrace app that works with a microchip to take and record temperature and other details crucial to a horse’s health.

“The beauty of the chip is it records the temperature in about three seconds,” said Dr Dorton, who specialises in youngstock.

“The app has been a wonderful addition for me, in identifying horses, keeping them separate, and it will also tell you where the horse was the last time he was scanned.”

They microchip the foal the day he is born, before he leaves the foaling stall, and from then on, any treatment or observations are added instantly to his records which can be accessed via the app by scanning his microchip.

Vaccinations, de-worming, and any signs that he is under the weather can all be quickly added and emailed as a record to whoever might need to see them.

The horse’s temperature can also be seen as a list or a graph, so any abnormalities are instantly visible.

“Everything is scanned before I get to the farm and that means I can see as soon as I arrive whether anything is abnormal,” said Dr Dorton, giving the example that one stud farm was able to take the temperature of 60 yearlings in four barns in 20 minutes.

“It is going to be an amazing tool for me next spring. Everything I need for the next breeding season is right here without me having to call the stud farm manager to ask questions.”

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How to keep infections at bay in the yard

Andrea Oakes — Tue, 24 Sep 2019 08:00:51 +0000

Biosecurity may be a buzzword in veterinary circles, but what does it mean for the horse owner in practical terms?

Put simply, biosecurity refers to the good hygiene practices that prevent the transmission of infectious disease. Looking back at the outbreaks of equine flu and strangles that have ravaged the equestrian population this year, causing sickness and yard closures, the need for better protection is clear.

“Infections are constantly circulating, so the threat is always there,” says Fleur Whitlock MRCVS, who stresses that biosecurity is our first line of defence. “By adopting everyday yard hygiene habits, we can work to ensure that our horses stay healthy and infection-free.”

Protect your premises with some simple steps…

Understand the risks

“Biosecurity is applicable to the whole horse population,” says Fleur, emphasising that it’s not just the big, busy yards that need to worry. “It’s important to remember that infectious disease can be spread through direct and indirect contact.

“Infection is more obviously shared through direct horse-to-horse contact, occurring over the stable door or in the field, or at a show or event,” she explains. “But those stay-at-home horses are at risk, too, as we can spread infection on our hands as we touch or handle different animals or move between yards.”

Identify the essentials

The “gold standard” yard biosecurity measures are outlined in the Horserace Betting Levy Board codes of practice (codes.hblb.org.uk). Is it practical to implement all the recommendations, on a regular basis?

“There are many hygiene and management habits that should be undertaken daily,” says Fleur, who highlights examples such as disinfecting feed and water buckets, and cleaning your hands between touching different animals. “While the real benefits are gained when habits are carried out at all times, some may need to be adapted to your individual situation and escalated at times of increased risk. It takes time to make change, but persevere so that good hygiene becomes second nature.”

Draw up a plan

If you haven’t done so already, set out your yard biosecurity plan.

“Discuss your approach with everyone involved, including grooms and liveries, making sure that everyone knows the plan and sticks to it,” says Fleur. “This includes yard visitors, such as vets, farriers and clients.”

Keep things clean

Washing hands — even between horses on the same yard — will help halt the spread of infection, says Fleur. Another option is to use antibacterial hand gel placed at strategic points around the yard, such as the entrance gate and outside stables.

“Disinfect your hands and ideally change into clean clothes when dealing with groups of horses that would not normally have any contact,” she adds. “Designate horses to certain groups and keep these the same at turnout time and when stabling. Each horse should have his own equipment, such as headcollar, grooming kit and buckets, clearly labelled.”

Isolate new arrivals

“A new horse is a common cause of an infection outbreak,” says Fleur, who recommends a 21-day isolation period — even if the newcomer appears outwardly healthy. “Ensure that he is vaccinated against equine flu, but remember that he will only have protection from two weeks after the second vaccine in a primary course,” she adds. “Ask your vet about any tests for infectious disease, such as the blood test that can identify carriers of strangles.”

Be alert for signs

Reduced appetite? Runny nose? Not quite himself? These are all signs that a horse may be ill.

“Additional signs that suggest he has an infection could include lethargy, coughing, swollen lymph nodes in the throat area and a temperature of 38.5°C or above,” explains Fleur. “Taking and recording a horse’s rectal temperature daily is advisable, especially at times of high risk such as after attending a show or if another horse at the yard has been diagnosed with an infection.

“If you suspect infection, isolate the individual immediately and call your vet.”

Keep jabs current

“Flu vaccination is extremely important. It does not always prevent all clinical signs, but will reduce their severity — limiting the amount of virus a horse can spread and the length of time he spreads it for,” says Fleur, explaining that vaccination on a yard-wide basis is most effective. “Ask your vet about appropriate vaccines for other contagious diseases, such as equine herpes virus [EHV].”

Show common sense

Mixing horses that do not normally have contact ramps up the risk.

“Avoid horse-to-horse or -human contact at shows or events,” says Fleur, who also advises steering clear of communal equipment, grazing areas and water troughs. “Clean and disinfect temporary stabling before use and make sure that neighbouring horses can’t touch each other. Once home, disinfect vehicles and equipment — and monitor your horse for signs of illness over the coming weeks.

“Cancel any forthcoming travel plans if infection is suspected, or diagnosed at the yard.”

Comminicate

Should the worst happen, what next?

“Infection can occur, despite the best efforts,” says Fleur. “Outbreaks can be stressful for all involved, but it’s important to be open and honest with other owners and surrounding yards. Close monitoring of all horses and immediate isolation of infected animals will help to contain disease.”

Ref Horse & Hound; 19 September 2019

British Dressage to insist on six monthly flu boosters to help prevent outbreaks: ‘it is our responsibility’

Lucy Elder — Thu, 12 Sep 2019 16:41:13 +0000

Six-monthly flu vaccinations will be mandatory for all horses competing with British Dressage (BD) from December.

The new rule, which has been met with a mixed response, is among several key updates to the BD members’ handbook that will come into force on 1 December.

National competitions will now follow the FEI lead on blood, and new guidelines on hyperflexion have also been added to the updated rulebook.

BD has also made it a requirement that all horses must be microchipped. While this is spelt out in the organisation’s rulebook, it actually applies to all horse owners by law — regardless of whether their equines compete or not. The law came into effect on 1 October 2018, requiring all horses to be microchipped with a two-year implementation period and the deadlines are 1 October for England, 12 February 2021 for Wales and 28 March 2021 for Scotland.

A statement from BD said the organisation has been acting on advice and evidence from those on the British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) high health steering group, the equine infectious disease advisory group and the Animal Health Trust (AHT) regarding flu.

“As a national governing body, the welfare of equines competing under our rules has to remain paramount at all times – and it’s our responsibility, along with every horse owner, to help negate the spread of this virus,” said the statement, adding the number of equine influenza cases peaked in July.

“We took the decision not to change our vaccination requirements mid-season during the initial outbreak, instead strongly recommending that a six-month booster be given, while continually monitoring the situation based on the latest updates from the AHT.”

Six-monthly boosters have been compulsory for horses competing under FEI rules for some time and for those attending British Eventing events since February. The British Horseracing Authority introduced a temporary rule in the spring, requiring all horses to have had a booster within six months, which was changed to nine months on 1 May. This applies to horses racing both under Rules and at point-to-points.

“A priority for the BEF high health steering group, which was set up at the start of this year and is chaired by Dr Jane Nixon, has been driving harmonisation of vaccination rules across the federation,” added the BD statement.

“All member bodies will be required to follow the same protocol, so that the intervals for first three vaccinations are all aligned, whatever the discipline, with a minimum requirement of annual vaccinations and six-monthly boosters strongly advised.

“While this is a positive step to improve vaccination rates across the equine population, as a high profile Olympic sport we believe it is important to lead by example, based on the expert veterinary advice on offer, by mandating six-monthly boosters as a requirement of competing with British Dressage from 1 December 2019 onwards.”

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The statement added a number of venues already insist on six-month boosters and this new rule will provide a “consistent approach” with a “clear policy all members can follow”.

“We appreciate that this is a significant move, so we wanted to ensure that we considered the advice provided by veterinary experts before amending our competition rules,” added the statement.

“All of the evidence points to the efficacy of vaccinations reducing after six months, hence the decision taken by the British Dressage board of directors to act accordingly.”

Dr Richard Newton, director of epidemiology and disease surveillance at the AHT, said there is “strong scientific evidence” from both previous outbreak investigations and mathematical modelling projects to support the understanding that herd immunity will be enhanced by adopting six-monthly boosters, as opposed to annual boosters.

“We believe it is through the actions of responsible horse owners who have heeded the advice to vaccinate their animals in light of the increased infectious risk that has contributed to the decline in the number of outbreaks we are seeing now,” said Dr Newton, adding owners should remain vigilant as flu is still a threat.

Vet David Rendle, European specialist in equine internal medicine and British Equine Veterinary Association council member, told H&H reactions to the vaccine are very rare.

“Some stiffness or soreness is not unexpected and indicates a response to vaccination the same as people frequently get. This isn’t generally an adverse effect, it’s normal,” he said, adding if owners are concerned, they should of course contact their vet.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

Show stands by decision not to insist on flu vaccinations

Becky Murray — Thu, 08 Aug 2019 12:21:53 +0000

A Welsh show is standing by its decision not to insist horses attending its competition are vaccinated against equine flu – as fresh outbreaks continue to be confirmed.

The society of the Pontardulais show, which takes place on 26 August at the show park in Pontardulais, Swansea, announced in May that owners are advised to vaccinate against flu – but said it was not obligatory.

In a statement on 26 May the society said: “After careful consideration, the society advises that owners of all equines other than foals under six months old, taking part in the show have all entries properly vaccinated against equine influenza.

“However this is not obligatory. Animals that are not vaccinated may also be entered and compete. No passports will be checked for up to date vaccination.

“We do ask that you ensure that your horses are fit and well prior to departure to the show and do not compete if they are showing any signs of equine influenza in order that this is not passed on to other competitor’s animals.”

On 1 August the society announced it would be standing by its original decision.

“Following discussion at last night’s committee meeting, the committee decided to abide by the decision made at May’s meeting,” said the statement.

“This was not a decision made by the secretary or by any individual member of the committee. It was a decision made by the committee present at the meeting.”

Chairman of the Pontardulais show society Trevor Thomas told H&H yesterday (7 August) the committee “did not feel it was necessary” to enforce vaccinations.

“We have left it up to the owners to make the decision whether they come to the show or not,” he said.

“The secretary spoke to the Animal Health Trust (AHT) and we were told it was up to the discretion of our committee and we have decided to go ahead as advertised in the beginning.”

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The society’s announcement on social media has received a mixed reaction with many people calling the decision “irresponsible” and “shocking”, saying they will not be attending as a result.

Latest figures show 219 outbreaks of equine flu have been confirmed, three in the first week of August. One outbreak in Neath Port Talbot on 1 August is around 15 miles from Pontardulais.

A spokesman for the AHT told H&H their advice remains the same; owners should remain vigilant and show organisers are encouraged to make vaccination mandatory.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Native breed society cancels show after outcry over non-compulsory flu vacs

Becky Murray — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 16:25:28 +0000

A breed society has announced the cancellation of its summer show owing to equine flu – having previously said it would not insist entrants be vaccinated.

The Dales Pony Society summer show due take place on 3 August, which included a Horse of the Year Show qualifier, has been cancelled.

In a statement yesterday (23 July), chair of council for the society Anne Alderson said: “The show scheduled to take place at Streatlam Farm, Barnard Castle has been cancelled due to the increasing number of equine flu cases in northern areas and subsequent strong feeling among members and others that unvaccinated ponies should not attend.

“It is now too late to introduce an effective mandatory vaccination policy and the society has been left with no option but to regretfully cancel the event.”

The HOYS National Pony Society mountain and moorland ridden Dales pony of the year qualifier has been moved to the society’s performance show on 25 August at West Park Arena, Wolsingham – and ponies must be vaccinated for this event.

“The judges remain as Brian Williams for ride and Ernest Coulthard for conformation. All entrants will be contacted to check if they still wish to compete. All ponies at this event must be vaccinated on a 12-month basis,” said the statement.

The statement added that all competitors entered for the summer show will receive a full refund for entry fees in due course.

This cancellation follows an earlier council statement on 17 July, in which the society announced it would not be insisting ponies be vaccinated against flu for the summer show.

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Call for show organisers to make flu vaccinations ‘mandatory’ as outbreaks top 200

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“Following the outbreak of equine influenza earlier this year, the council took the stance that mandatory flu vaccinations would not be required at the Dales Pony Society spring and summer shows, but strongly recommended that ponies were vaccinated against equine flu,” said the statement.

“At the council meeting of 8 July this policy was reviewed in light of information received from the British Equine Veterinary Association that the flu outbreak was in fact worsening, particularly in the northern areas following Appleby Fair. Following discussion it was agreed, as a majority decision, to leave the policy unchanged for the summer show as the schedule had already gone out. The policy is to be reviewed again at the council meeting scheduled for 16 September.

As of yesterday there had been 44 confirmed flu outbreaks this month.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Call for show organisers to make flu vaccinations ‘mandatory’ as outbreaks top 200

Lucy Elder — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 12:22:04 +0000

The number of equine flu outbreaks in the UK this year has now topped 200.

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) has warned this is likely to continue to rise as the summer competition season continues in full swing.

As of yesterday (15 July), there had been 202 laboratory confirmed cases in 2019 compared to just three last year.

“Alarmingly the number of outbreaks of equine influenza continues to rise and are likely to continue week-on-week for the foreseeable future,” said Dr Richard Newton, director of epidemiology and disease surveillance at the AHT.

“The effect of increased horse movement and mixing of horses at events in the summer is a contributing factor”.

So far all of the positive samples that have been isolated and characterised at the AHT belong to Florida clade 1.

The latest outbreaks are across the UK and all confirmed cases since 5 July have involved either unvaccinated horses or horses with an unknown or unconfirmed vaccination history.

But the virus has also affected some vaccinated horses and the AHT is continuing to urge all owners are urged to “remain vigilant” for signs of flu, practise good biosecurity and ensure their horses’ vaccinations are up to date.

Those horses who received flu jabs or boosters when the outbreaks first took hold in February will be due a six-month booster next month (August).

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“The advice to all horse owners from the AHT remains the same,” said a statement from the trust.

“Remain vigilant to the clinical signs of flu, boost the horse’s vaccination if it was given more than six months ago and importantly isolate new arrivals on the yard and those returning from shows.

“It is important that horse-owners also practise good biosecurity at the yard and when out competing.”

Dr Newton added: “We applaud those horse shows and events which have made vaccination mandatory, have arrangements to check passports and enforce the rules.

“We encourage organisers of horse shows and events in the future to make vaccination mandatory, and to ensure this decision is communicated in plenty of time ahead of their event to allow owners the time to properly vaccinate their animals.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

Tullis Matson: We face a greater risk than ever H&H VIP

Horse & Hound — Sat, 13 Jul 2019 08:00:56 +0000

The bio-security risk in the UK is greater than ever. The equine industry is lucky when it comes to freedom of movement of animals compared to other agricultural industries. The transport of livestock such as cattle and sheep is much more restricted. However, this freedom of movement comes at a cost and means we have to be extra mindful of bio-security.

I firmly believe bio-security is one of our biggest challenges and presents a real risk to the equine industry as we know it. It’s the one thing that could shut down my business straight away — Stallion AI Services is a quarantine centre, meaning we are licensed by Defra to export semen around the world. But bio-security is something all horse owners should be aware of.

The UK currently has a good health status and it’s important we maintain this, especially moving towards Brexit. It is an advantage when negotiating exports with other countries. But more and more diseases are already in existence or are making their way to the UK, such as equine flu and equine viral arteritis (EVA) as well as more exotic diseases, too.

EVA is more common in Europe, but it has now broken out here and threatens to have devastating consequences on our breeding industry. The virus can cause mares to abort and, once a stallion carries it in their semen, they should no longer be used as a breeding stallion.

Simple measures

Everyone with horses must become more bio-conscious and particularly careful about transporting horses, whether that’s to abroad for international competition or to a local show up the road. Be aware of the horses yours is coming into contact with or is stabled next to. Just stroking a horse in the stables then patting another can spread disease.

However, there are simple measures everybody can take. How many people know their horse’s average temperature and how many take it regularly? One of the first signs of a virus can be a change in temperature and it’s easy to check. We take the temperature of every horse on our yard three times per week.

Act straight away on your instincts if you notice a change. Where possible, isolate any horse with a temperature or a snotty nose and monitor them. These things can be quite easily contained if caught early.

Yard owners can take small measures, too. Provide hand sanitizer and encourage those on your yard to use it between horses. Where possible, avoid sharing tack and, if using one saddle on multiple horses, consider changing the numnah or pad for each. Some basic husbandry on the yard can make a big difference.

Ref Horse & Hound; 11 July 2019

County show cancels all horse classes due to flu outbreak

Becky Murray — Sat, 13 Jul 2019 06:03:20 +0000

A popular county show has announced it has cancelled all horse classes at this year’s event as fresh outbreaks of equine flu continue to be diagnosed.

The Anglesey Agricultural Show (13 to 14 August) will not host horse classes in 2019, following a confirmed outbreak of flu on the island off the north coast of Wales on 5 July.

In a statement the Anglesey Agricultural Society said: “After careful consideration and consultation with professionals regarding equine flu, the society have considered a range of options and we regret to inform you that we have decided to cancel all horse sections at this year’s show.

“The primary reason for taking this decision is the welfare of the animals and a recent confirmed case of equine flu on Anglesey.”

The show, which attracts around 60,000 visitors, was due to hold heavy and light horse showing classes alongside British Showjumping, and included qualifying opportunities for Horse of the Year Show, the Royal International Horse Show and Ponies (UK).

The society said the show will go ahead with other livestock sections carrying on as usual.

“We will work on arranging an exciting line up of main ring attractions. Please keep an eye out for updates,” continued the statement, which added that horses will be back for the event in 2020.

The news follows the announcement on Wednesday (9 July) from the organisers of the Royal Welsh Show that they were changing their requirements to state that equine entries must be vaccinated against flu to attend the event (22 to 25 July).

Pembrokeshire County Show (13 to 15 August) announced on Thursday (10 July) that following “ongoing developments” the society had reviewed its policy and while it had considered cancelling, following professional advice, it had implemented a mandatory vaccination regime and required all equines to have received the primary course.

“Checks will be made to confirm compliance with the mandatory vaccination requirements. Owners of all equines must provide proof of an up-to-date influenza vaccination record in order for their equines to be exhibited,” the statement said.

“This notice is being issued at this time in an attempt to provide ample time and opportunity for those equines currently not vaccinated to be injected prior to this year’s show.”

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By 10 July, 26 outbreaks of equine flu had been confirmed this month.

Dr Richard Newton, director of epidemiology and disease surveillance at the Animal Health Trust told H&H the action being taken by the shows was a “step in the right direction”.

“Whilst it is a shame that some events have been cancelled, we should consider that they are however also taking responsibility, albeit in a different way, by not gathering unvaccinated animals and this action will hopefully also contribute to reducing exposure and spread of flu,” said Dr Newton.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Royal Welsh U-turn on flu jabs as 25 outbreaks confirmed so far in July

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 10 Jul 2019 16:38:29 +0000

Organisers of the Royal Welsh Show have changed their requirements to state that all equine entries must be vaccinated against flu to attend the event (22 to 25 July).

Concerns had been raised, last month, that the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society was “strongly advising and encouraging” owners to ensure equine flu vaccinations were up to date – but not insisting on it.

But yesterday (9 July), the society released a statement saying it had changed its policy.

“In light of changing circumstances and advice from animal health professionals, the society has made a decision, after considering a number of options, to allow only horses vaccinated against equine flu to attend this year’s Royal Welsh Show,” the statement read.

“Vaccinated horses must have received both the first and second doses (primary course) of vaccines and will be asked to provide proof of this along with their passport during spot checks.”

The society said this had “not been an easy decision to make” but that members felt it would be preferable to cancelling the equine classes, an option it had also considered.

“We understand this is going to be a disappointing outcome for some exhibitors, but the welfare of the animals attending the show must be our priority,” the statement said.

There were 41 confirmed equine flu outbreaks in June, more than in any other month this year, a resurgence the Animal Health Trust believes is owing to increased movement and mixing of horses at events. By 9 July, 25 outbreaks had been confirmed this month.

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“Putting the welfare of horses first, within this fast-changing picture, the society has decided that all equines attending this year’s Royal Welsh Show must be properly vaccinated,” the society said.

“We will continue to work with our own veterinary professionals, the chief veterinary officer (Wales) and exhibitors to minimise the spread of animal disease.”

The two vaccinations must have been given at least seven days before the animal enters the showground.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Flu confirmed in horses vaccinated this spring and broodmare: foal also showing signs

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 04 Jul 2019 16:27:02 +0000

Two horses vaccinated against equine flu during the past three months have been confirmed as having the virus, in five outbreaks confirmed in the first few days of this month.

As of yesterday (3 July), flu has been confirmed in County Durham, Monmouthshire, Norfolk, Leicestershire and East Sussex. Among the affected animals is a broodmare whose three-month-old foal is also showing clinical signs of the condition.

The Leicestershire outbreak involves two horses, one of whom was vaccinated in March and the other in April. The diagnoses were made as they were required to be swabbed for flu to be allowed entry to a competition.

The same process confirmed the East Sussex case, a horse who was also vaccinated.

“Where infection has been confirmed in vaccinated animals, the appropriate vaccine manufacturers and the Veterinary Medicines Directorate will be made aware by the treating vet,” the Animal Health Trust (AHT) said in a statement.

“If a vet has a suspect case of equine flu in a vaccinated animal, we encourage sampling to confirm infection, but suspect cases on yards with confirmed cases should also be reported to vaccine manufacturers.”

The Monmouthshire outbreak was confirmed on a yard where 10 unvaccinated horses live. The one diagnosed case is a mare with a three-month-old foal, who is also “demonstrating clinical signs”. All the other horses on the yard have also since developed symptoms, the AHT said, and it is likely the virus was transmitted by recent attendance at an event.

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Shock as major show does not insist on flu jabs – as 41 cases confirmed in a month

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The case confirmed in Norfolk is a horse who was vaccinated a year ago, at a yard from which horses have gone off-site in the past fortnight, while the four confirmed in County Durham are unvaccinated. It is reported that “multiple” other horses on the same yard are also affected.

The AHT believes the recent resurgence in the flu outbreak – 41 outbreaks were confirmed in June, more than any other month this year – has been caused by increased movement and mixing of horses at events. Its advice to owners is to be vigilant, and to consider six-month booster vaccinations.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Shock as major show does not insist on flu jabs – as 41 cases confirmed in a month

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 29 Jun 2019 15:07:17 +0000

Concerns have been raised over the fact a major county show is not insisting horses entered in its competitions are vaccinated against equine flu.

As 41 outbreaks have already been confirmed in June, the highest number of any month this year, organisers of the Royal Welsh Show (22 to 25 July) are “strongly advising” owners of all equines other than foals aged under six months to have entries “properly vaccinated” against flu.

It asks entrants to “please ensure your horses are fit and well prior to departure for the showground”, and reminds them that they travel to the show at their own risk, “with consideration to be given to the potential disease risks”.

One man who had entered his mare and foal for the show withdrew on learning there could be unvaccinated equines present.

“It’s a massive shock,” he told H&H.

“They’re taking all this money for entries but there could be unvaccinated horses there, putting the rest of them at risk.

“Flu is still a big issue, with outbreaks all round the country so I’m shocked they’re doing this. I’ve got a mare and foal, and some older horses at home; it’s just not worth putting them at risk.”

The outbreaks confirmed so far in June have been spread across the country. Although none have been diagnosed in Powys, where the show is held, horses have tested positive in the surrounding areas.

The Animal Health Trust told H&H this week that the outbreak is “gathering pace”, and that the recent resurgence in activity is “undoubtedly related to the increased movement and mixing of horses and ponies attending events at this time of year”.

In its latest advice, the British Equestrian Federation said: “It is vital that unvaccinated horses do not mix with other equines due to the increased risk of such an infectious disease spreading.”

In a letter to exhibitors, the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society said it “strongly advises and encourages all horses to be vaccinated against equine influenza”.

The letter added: “If competitors have any concerns about the health of their horses (fever, cough, lethargy etc) they should not travel to the show.

“Horses from yards/premises where equine flu has been suspected/confirmed should not travel to the show.”

It said competitors should not share feed or water buckets, or tack, should “try to avoid” allowing their horses to graze at the show and should make “all attempts to limit contact with other horses”.

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Equine flu ‘gathering pace’ as experts warn owners not to drop their guard

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There will be “regular clearing” of muck heaps, which competitors will be asked to use, during the show, and staff will disinfect stables “as best as possible” between users, but it is the competitors’ responsibility to ensure stables have been disinfected before they use them.

Organisers state that horses should be isolated after their return home from the show, adding: “competitors to discuss this with their own vet.”

“The society will not hold itself responsible for any problem that may develop subsequent to bringing an unvaccinated equine to the show,” the letter states.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Equine flu ‘gathering pace’ as experts warn owners not to drop their guard

Lucy Elder — Mon, 24 Jun 2019 17:41:10 +0000

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) has warned it believes equine flu outbreaks are “gathering pace” as the number of cases tops 130 in 2019.

The trust told H&H it has seen more outbreaks in the second quarter of 2019 than the first and is urging owners not to drop their guard.

“Equine influenza [EI] has definitely not gone away,” an AHT spokesman told H&H.

“We strongly believe it is gathering pace; with the recent resurgence in activity undoubtedly related to the increased movement and mixing of horses and ponies attending events at this time of year.

“We urge all horse owners to remain extremely vigilant and recommend vaccination of entire premises and quarantining of new or returning animals to help limit the spread of the disease.

“On premises where EI is confirmed we urge horse and yard owners to implement voluntary movement restrictions and not send animals to events, even if they appear outwardly healthy.”

AHT records as of today (24 June) show 33 outbreaks for the month across England, Wales and Scotland. To put this into context, February — the month with the highest number of recorded outbreaks — had 35.

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The majority of cases have been in unvaccinated horses and the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) is also calling on owners to “maintain their vigilance” and ensure vaccinations are up to date.

“It is thought that the higher number of positive diagnoses is due to the increased movement and mixing of horses that typically occurs during this time of year, with these horses then returning to their home yards and mixing with unvaccinated individuals,” said a BEF spokesman.

“We strongly recommend that if it has been longer than six months since the last vaccination, owners should discuss a booster with their veterinary surgeon.

“It is also vital that unvaccinated horses do not mix with other equines due to the increased risk of such an infectious disease spreading. In addition, the Animal Health Trust has suggested that new or returning horses are quarantined to try to limit the spread of the disease.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

Latest equine flu update: number of confirmed outbreaks on the rise

Becky Murray — Wed, 19 Jun 2019 13:43:35 +0000

Equine flu remains an ongoing concern as the confirmed number of outbreaks is on the rise.

The latest update from the Animal Health Trust shows 22 outbreaks this month, up to and including 18 June; one in Scotland, nine in Wales, and 12 in England. The outbreaks relate to unvaccinated horses except one thoroughbred in Essex, diagnosed on 2 June, who was “presumed” vaccinated. This follows 20 outbreaks in May, and 12 in April.

Of the outbreaks in June, one horse had recently arrived from the Netherlands. The remainder do not relate to imported horses.

On 11 June a diagnosis was confirmed in two non-thoroughbreds at an event in Cumbria with reports of “several other” horses affected at the event. A non-thoroughbred in Manchester and one in Sussex were diagnosed on 17 June having recently returned from an event in Cumbria.

Five horses who had recently arrived from a sale were diagnosed in Carmarthenshire on 14 June, while horses were diagnosed at five separate premises across Swansea.

The British Equestrian Federation’s most recent advice urges owners to continue to maintain vigilance and ensure vaccination records are up to date.

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“We strongly recommend that if it has been longer than six months since the last vaccination, owners should discuss a booster with their veterinary surgeon,” the statement said.

“It is also vital that unvaccinated horses do not mix with other equines due to the increased risk of such an infectious disease spreading.

“Our recommendations are based on advice from experts in equine flu and epidemiology with experience in managing previous outbreaks.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

‘We must pull together’ to beat equine flu as outbreak roars on unabated

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 31 May 2019 06:08:51 +0000

The equine flu outbreak shows no sign of abating – and the number of cases is likely to rise as the competition season continues, experts have warned.

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is continuing to confirm cases of the virus, with 21 so far diagnosed this month, following 12 in April. Last week, 15 cases were confirmed, the second-highest number in one week since the start of this year.

The AHT is urging horse owners to continue to be vigilant and take all necessary precautions to minimise the spread of the virus.

“As the competition season is getting into its busiest period the number of outbreaks is likely to continue to rise with the movement of horses across the country,” said AHT director of epidemiology and disease surveillance Richard Newton.

“Flu is still as much of a threat as it was earlier this year.

“Our advice to horse owners remains the same; be aware of the clinical signs of equine influenza and boost your horse’s vaccination if it was given more than six months ago. Importantly, isolate new arrivals on your yard and continue to practise good biosecurity at competitions and at home”.

The equine flu virus relies on transmission to new horses to survive, and clinical signs can spread very fast in groups of horses. It can also travel long distances in the air.

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Flu: experts urge continued vigilance as more cases confirmed

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Dr Newton said: “We are still urging all competition and event organisers to support vaccination within six months in order to maximise the chance of horses’ having protective immunity.

“If all parts of the equestrian community pull together we stand a much better chance of containing these outbreaks which show no sign of abating.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Flu: experts urge continued vigilance as more cases confirmed

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 28 May 2019 12:14:16 +0000

Edited 29 May to include latest figures

Experts are urging owners to continue to be vigilant over equine flu as 32 cases have been confirmed in less than two months.

The latest update from the Animal Health Trust shows 20 outbreaks in May, including nine in a week. This follows 12 cases confirmed in April.

Of the outbreaks reported at the beginning of May, eight involved horses who had recently been imported from Ireland, and one a horse who had recently arrived from Europe.

Two of the affected horses were vaccinated against flu, the vaccination status of two more is not known and the rest had not been vaccinated.

In a statement, the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) said it “continues to closely monitor the equine flu outbreak”, noting the latest figures from the Animal Health Trust.

“This outbreak is no longer making headlines but the BEF urges owners to maintain their vigilance and ensure their vaccination records are up to date,” the statement said.

“We strongly recommend that if it has been longer than six months since the last vaccination, owners should discuss a booster with their veterinary surgeon.

“It is also vital that unvaccinated horses do not mix with other equines due to the increased risk of such an infectious disease spreading.

“Our recommendations are based on advice from experts in equine flu and epidemiology with experience in managing previous outbreaks.”

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The BEF also “continues to strongly recommend” that all competition and event organisers check the passports of all horses to ensure they comply with vaccination rules.

The May outbreaks, in Yorkshire, Cheshire, Manchester, Shropshire, Northamptonshire, Essex, Northumberland, Norfolk, Gloucestershire and central Scotland, take the number confirmed this year so far to 93 in total.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Governing body’s plan for eight-month flu vaccinations

Becky Murray — Tue, 30 Apr 2019 16:38:42 +0000

Racehorses may have to be vaccinated against flu twice a year from next January, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has announced.

The governing body is to consult with stakeholders on plans to change the vaccination renewal period for equine flu to eight months.

Following the flu outbreak in February, the BHA reduced the vaccination renewal period for horses in training from 12 to six months but following discussions with the BHA veterinary committee, which includes experts from all parts of the racing industry, it now proposes to make eight months the new standard from 1 January 2020.

A spokesman said: “The BHA believes the range of biosecurity controls that exist in British racing ensure the eight-month standard provides an appropriate balance between risk and pragmatism.

“In the meantime, as of 1 May 2019 the existing temporary measures will be adjusted so horses presented at a racecourse will need to show they have been vaccinated against equine influenza within the last eight months, with a one-month grace period, meaning nine months for practical purposes.”

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The spokesman added that the current requirement for a health declaration form to be submitted on the arrival at the racecourse for each runner will not apply for British-trained runners, from licensed yards from 1 May 2019.

Hunter chasers from unlicensed yards will still have to provide the declaration as will international runners, who will also have to provide a negative result for flu from a nasal swab no more than 72 hours before their arrival in Britain.

“The BHA is grateful to the veterinary committee and the NTF and trainers for their input so far to this process,” the spokesman said.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Equine flu latest: 61 cases this year as work continues to control outbreaks

Lucy Elder — Fri, 29 Mar 2019 14:52:53 +0000

Vaccination and biosecurity remain crucial in controlling equine flu outbreaks across the UK, the Animal Health Trust (AHT) has reminded owners.

There have now been 61 confirmed cases since the start of the year, with the outbreak following the expected pattern.

“We are certainly hopeful that events raising their game and requiring vaccination will have had a positive effect on reducing transmission,” an AHT spokesman told H&H.

“But the continued testing and positives does suggest that there is still a problem with a sufficiently large proportion of susceptible non-vaccinated horses and movement of them to allow equine flu to continue to circulate.”

Many venues and national governing bodies are continuing to insist on horses’ having received a flu vaccination booster within six months of arrival at an event.

In January there were five confirmed cases of equine flu, with four involving vaccinated horses — more than double the total number of cases in both vaccinated and unvaccinated horses in the whole of 2018.

“February was busier with 35 outbreaks confirmed and with nine [of those] involving vaccinated horses, there was heightened awareness from the headlines around racing,” added the AHT spokesman.

“This was reflected in the amount of testing undertaken; this was more than all of the most recent year where we saw increased equine flu activity, 2014.

“March has quietened down, although we have still confirmed 21 positive outbreaks so far in March making it 61 altogether and we may see several outbreaks confirmed in a day, for example three were confirmed on Wednesday.

“However, this is a pattern that we might expect. The outbreak will almost certainly continue to grumble on and we expect to continue to make positive diagnoses, especially in clinically sicker non-vaccinated animals.”

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The spokesman warned it is not always accurate to compare numbers of confirmed outbreaks as a measure of the extent of the spread of the virus. This is because increased testing can mean an increase in diagnoses.

“But the 61 confirmed outbreaks before the end of March makes this the largest detected in several decades, even accepting for the inevitable heightened awareness around the disease increasing the numbers submitted for testing,” he added.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

Equine flu remains a concern as new cases confirmed

Becky Murray — Fri, 08 Mar 2019 18:18:59 +0000

The current outbreak of equine flu remains an ongoing concern with five new cases having been confirmed by the Animal Health Trust during the first seven days of March.

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) has reported confirmed cases of the virus in Suffolk, Staffordshire and three cases at separate premises in Sussex, both in vaccinated and unvaccinated horses.

Yesterday (7 March) a case was confirmed in Sussex in an unvaccinated non-thoroughbred that had been imported from Ireland.

An AHT spokesman said approximately 30 other vaccinated horses are on the premises, but have “not shown any clinical signs” at this stage.

On 5 March two cases at separate two premises in Sussex were confirmed. The first case is in a vaccinated non-throroughbred who presented with nasal discharge.

“There are 18 other horses that are vaccinated at the premises but have not shown any clinical signs at this stage,” said the AHT spokesman.

In the second case, a positive diagnosis was made on an unvaccinated non-thoroughbred, that had contact with another horse reported to have been recently imported from Ireland.

“The case presented with harsh dry coughing, nasal discharge, pyrexia and in-appetence and there is one directly in-contact animal, which had recently been imported showing signs of a nasal discharge. There are 18 other horses that are vaccinated but which are not showing clinical signs at this stage,” said the spokesman.

On 4 March cases were confirmed in Suffolk and Staffordshire.

The positive diagnosis in Suffolk was confirmed in an unvaccinated non-thoroughbred, recently imported from Ireland.

“There are 14 in-contacts with varying vaccination status and four of these have had mild signs of coughing,” said the spokesman.

In Staffordshire a positive diagnosis was confirmed in an unvaccinated non-throroughbred.

The AHT spokesman said no furthers cases had been reported at the Staffordshire premises of five horses, three of which are “fully and recently” vaccinated.

This brings the total number of outbreaks reported to the Animal Health Trust during 2019 to 45.

Meanwhile, officials at Malvern’s popular Three Counties showground have said equines must be vaccinated against flu within the last six months plus 21 days, but not within seven days before are attending the showground.

Equines who have only received the primary course of vaccinations can attend, as long as they have had the first two injections which make up the primary course; the second of which must have been given six months plus 21 days but not within seven days before the show.

This means equines attending the CountryTastic show on 18 April must have received their last vaccination between 28 September 2018 and 11 April 2019 inclusive, and equines attending the Royal Three Counties Show on 14-16 June must have received their last vaccination between 24 November 2018 and 7 June inclusive.

Head of shows, Diana Walton, said: “Equine flu is a serious concern to anyone involved in the industry and, as a responsible organisation, we have to play our part.

“After taking guidance from our team of highly-experienced equine experts we have decided that we have no alternative options but to enforce the FEI guidelines. This means that any horse, pony, donkey or mule attending an event at the showground must have been vaccinated as per the FEI requirements.”

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Equine who have not been vaccinated correctly will not be allowed to attend the showground.

“Equine entries will have their passports checked and any animals found not to be complying with the FEI vaccination rules will not be allowed to enter the showground,” said Diana.

“We know how passionate the equine community is about the welfare of its animals and we’re counting on people’s support on this matter.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Yard owner urges lockdown in equine flu outbreaks as more cases confirmed

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 22 Feb 2019 11:42:45 +0000

A yard owner who inadvertently took in a horse suffering from flu has spoken out on the importance of locking down — as a number of new cases have been confirmed.

Gina Burns’ daughter Georgia, an eventer who also coaches, took in a client’s new horse, bought from a dealer, for schooling at her yard in Scotland on 7 February. She had insisted on a vetting and a strangles test beforehand, but when the horse was walked off the lorry, its snotty nose was clearly visible.

A vet arrived at the yard within the hour and a swab confirmed the horse was suffering from flu. The yard shut down immediately and now, two weeks later, is waiting for further tests to confirm the horses are clear and life can get back to normal.

“We put a post on Facebook to say what had happened as we wanted to be upfront, to say we had it but we were on lockdown,” Gina told H&H.

“We got generally a very positive response but when I called the dealer, I got nothing but abuse. He said the horse was perfect when it left his yard but the vet said there was no way; not with snot as thick and yellow as that.”

Gina is concerned that another horse she knows of has been sold from the dealer’s yard to elsewhere in Scotland and others have travelled to England – all three have since tested positive for flu.

“The man said the horse had been swabbed and it was nothing to do with him so there’s no point in talking to him,” she said.

“But I read the article in H&H [21 February] saying the flu’s going nowhere and people need to be responsible and it’s so right. If people just shut down and have their horses vaccinated – we’re just waiting for confirmation we’re clear and we can start again.

“We’ve come clean about it and I feel that’s the right thing to do.”

Gina spoke to H&H as the Animal Health Trust confirmed a number of new cases yesterday (21 February).

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Three unvaccinated non-thoroughbreds in Kent have been confirmed with the virus, as well as one unvaccinated non-thoroughbred in Gloucestershire. One other horse on the latter premises is showing nasal discharge.

In Hertfordshire, one unvaccinated non-thoroughbred has tested positive for flu, along with one vaccinated non-thoroughbred in Sussex, who showed mild signs and was back to normal days later.

In Yorkshire, five non-thoroughbreds, two of whom were vaccinated, have tested positive.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

British Eventing brings in six-month flu vaccination rule

Lucy Elder — Fri, 22 Feb 2019 11:13:39 +0000

All horses arriving at affiliated events must have had a flu booster vaccination within six months or they will be turned away.

British Eventing (BE) made the announcement last night (21 February) and the new rule applies both to competition horses and travelling companions.

Some organisers, including Great Witchingham (1) (22 to 24 March) had already told competitors their horses would need a six-month booster in order to compete at their event. Now this new rule brings all fixtures under the same requirements.

With the first BE events of the season starting in eight days’ time (2 March), owners of horses entered have limited time to ensure their vaccinations are in line.

“Following a further review of our policy regarding vaccinations, British Eventing is implementing an updated vaccination policy across all BE fixtures,” said a spokesman.

“The changes to vaccination requirements will be effective from 1 March 2019 until further notice, it will be continually monitored and reviewed based on the current equine flu status and advice from industry experts, including veterinarians.”

He added the policy will be “enforced at all BE fixtures” to ensure “officials, riders, owners or person responsible, have a clear set of rules to follow without variation between venues and events.”

“We thank all members for their cooperation with the new rules and remind all competitors to please make sure that all horses’ passports are available for checking when collecting numbers,” he added.

Under BE rules, vaccinations cannot be given on the day of a competition and there is no seven-day stand-down period. A number of owners have expressed concerns over vaccinating so close to a competition. Other venues and organisations including the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), Pony Club and Point-to-Point Authority (following BHA Rules), require a clear six-day break between vaccination and arrival at a fixture.

Passports and vaccination records must accompany all horses on board a trailer or horsebox to an event.

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The BE guidance adds:

Any horse without a passport will be sent home, along with his travel companions
Passports and vaccination records in accordance with the new rules must be carried for all horses on board any vehicle. Any horses without compliant vaccination records will be asked to leave the site, along with any others which they may have travelled with.
A booster given within seven days of the event is fine, provided the vaccination was given at least the day before the horse arrives at the event, and is not more than one year after the previous booster. (see Rule 10.2.4)
If only the primary course has been given, this is fine, as long as the horse has had the first two injections that make up the primary course, and the second injection was given within the last six months
Historical discrepancies (ref: rule 10.2.3) — in cases where there are historical discrepancies (e.g. booster was given five days late in 2014), but the primary course is correct and the horse has had the most recent booster within the last six months, it will be at the discretion of the vet and BE steward as to whether the horse may compete.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

New strain of equine flu behind outbreak, experts confirm

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 18 Feb 2019 18:55:05 +0000

A new strain of equine flu is causing the current outbreak, the Animal Health Trust (AHT) has confirmed – but vaccinated horses are protected against it.

The charity has now confirmed flu outbreaks in 17 counties in England and Scotland, in unvaccinated and vaccinated horses.

The strain of the virus circulating is a new one, but vaccinated horses should have a level of protection from it.

“If vaccinated horses are exposed to the virus, clinical signs should be milder and they should get better faster than an unvaccinated horse,” an AHT spokesman said.

“This has been demonstrated in the vaccinated cases seen so far this year.

“Reassuringly, the charity confirms that vaccines are providing a better degree of protection than was initially thought when disease outbreaks became apparent in Europe, especially when recent boosting has been implemented.”

The AHT “continues to emphasise the importance of vaccination” in protecting horses against equine flu, and recommends that all horse owners revaccinate if a horse’s booster vaccination was given more than six months ago.

“It is clear that this strain of the virus (Florida clade 1 H3N8) is not going away and is taking advantage of any opportunity given to it to spread among our horse population,” the spokesman said.

“Collectively, we all need to do everything we can to minimise these opportunities.”

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The AHT recommends that owners adhere to five basic protocols:

Vaccinate – boost your horse’s vaccination if it was given more than six months ago and encourage others to do the same. If your horse is not vaccinated, it will need to start a course of vaccinations and will not have protection until two weeks after the second vaccine in the course is given.

Isolate – what biosecurity measures are in place at your own yard? Immediately isolate new or unwell horses away from the main yard to help prevent the disease spreading. Make sure you know your own biosecurity policies, and if you are not sure ask yard owners or managers.

Investigate – if you’re planning to attend an event or training, speak to the organisers and ask about biosecurity policies – what is in place to minimise the spread of disease? If you are not comfortable with what is in place, don’t attend!

Communicate – we encourage vets and horse owners to be open if they have a suspected or confirmed outbreak, to help minimise the spread of flu to others.

Mitigate – horse owners are encouraged to do all they can to know the risk of moving their horse or attending an event. Gather as much information as you can to enable you to mitigate against the risk and make your own sensible decision based on this.

The latest information from the AHT on equine flu outbreaks is available from the charity’s flu website or Twitter account @equiflunet

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Equine flu: advice to owners after new cases include 16 on one yard

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 18 Feb 2019 11:47:18 +0000

Owners must not take horses to events or competitions if others at the yard appear unwell, the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) has stated, after a number of new cases of equine flu have been confirmed.

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) has reported confirmed cases of the virus in Shropshire, Worcestershire, Norfolk and Buckinghamshire over the weekend.

In Worcestershire, 16 horses tested positive at one premises, which the AHT states is thought to be related to unvaccinated horses coming into contact with other equines at an event.

“The BEF continues to recommend strongly that unvaccinated horses do not mix with other horses,” the federation said in a statement. “Our advice remains that owners MUST NOT take their horse to an event or competition if horses at their yard appear to be unwell.

“The current outbreak has demonstrated the importance of vaccinations and the BEF continues to urge all owners to ensure that their vaccination records are up to date. If it has been longer than six months since the last vaccination, we strongly recommend discussing a booster with their veterinary surgeon.”

The BEF has asked organisers of all competitions and training events to check the passports of all horses attending to ensure they are vaccinated.

A number of venues have also put in place extra precautionary measures, and riders are advised to check requirements before they leave.

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Equine flu: shows cancelled as more cases confirmed

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The British Eventing (BE) season starts next weekend (2-3 March) and some organisers are among those to change requirements.

BE said that if a venue has “enhanced the conditions of vaccinations above those required” under BE rule 10.2, any horse competing must abide by these requirements. The list of policies for forthcoming BE fixtures is on the BE website, but riders should check with venues directly.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Equine flu: shows cancelled as more cases confirmed

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 11:58:37 +0000

A number of new cases of equine flu have been confirmed in Britain during the past 24 hours – as well as cases in the US and a “potential epidemic” in west Africa.

The Animal Health Trust has reported at least five horses have confirmed flu on a premises in Hertfordshire, where 15 others are showing signs of the virus. The yard, on which 30 non-thoroughbred horses live, most unvaccinated, has placed restrictions on movement.

Two other diagnosed cases, in Buckinghamshire and central Scotland, involve recently-arrived unvaccinated horses, who have been in contact with a total of eight vaccinated equines. Two horses have been confirmed as having the virus in Worcestershire. One is a vaccinated non-thoroughbred with no equine contacts, the other an unvaccinated non-thoroughbred in contact with some 35 other equines, of whom about half are vaccinated, but this yard has been on lockdown since a case strangles was confirmed there in the last month.

A number of venues have cancelled events planned for the coming days as a result of the outbreaks.

Blue Barn and Cobham Manor in Kent, Pyecombe and Crockstead in West Sussex and Petley Wood in East Sussex are among those to have cancelled affiliated and unaffiliated competition, promising refunds or transfer of entries to affected competitors.

Crockstead said in a statement the decision had been made after a “sleepless night”, adding: “There is always another day.”

Other venues have said they will still run planned shows, but that riders should ensure vaccinations are up to date, and that passports should be available to be checked.

The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) is urging all competition and training event organisers to check all attending horses’ passports to ensure they comply with rules. It also advises riders to check venues’ requirements beforehand.

“The BEF continues to urge all owners to be vigilant for the symptoms of equine flu and to alert the vet if they think their horses are showing signs,” the BEF said in a statement.

“All owners MUST ensure vaccination records are up to date, and if it has been longer than six months since the last vaccination, we strongly recommend discussing a booster with their veterinary surgeon.

“We also remind owners that any contact with recently imported horses represents an increased risk so owners should follow veterinary advice by isolating any recently imported horse for a period of at least 21 days.”

In Ohio, US, three horses at the World Equestrian Center have tested positive for equine flu, and have been isolated since Sunday (10 February).

“The World Equestrian Center will continue to observe all recommended biosecurity measures and be vigilant in its effort to avoid the spread of the virus by continuing to disinfect and sterilise stabling, wash racks, walkways and common areas on the horse show grounds,” the venue said in a statement, adding that competition was to continue this week.

The Donkey Sanctuary has also warned of a possible epidemic, as an outbreak of equine flu has been declared in Nigeria. It has been suggested that the spread of the virus, which has so far affected 3,000 equines, is owing to the illegal movement of donkeys, possibly a symptom of the donkey skin trade.

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Equine flu: do we need an epidemic before we act?

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INJECTION FLU INJECT (Image credit: TI Media)

Equine flu: what horse owners need to know during the current outbreak in Britain

“The Donkey Sanctuary is hearing from partners in neighbouring countries Mali and Ghana of donkeys showing similar characteristics of the disease, including fever and nasal discharge, although these have not been officially confirmed,” a spokesman for the charity said.

“The current outbreak in the UK and previous outbreaks in Australia and China have proven to have costly consequences to the equine populations, putting at risk not just working equines but domestic and competing animals too.”

The Donkey Sanctuary is now taking steps to alert at-risk countries of the threats of an equine flu epidemic and to offer support to governments and donkey-owning communities, including distributing information on how to prevent further spread of the disease.

The charity is also “imploring” at-risk countries to immediately ban movement of donkeys along trade routes and to tackle illegal movements.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Latest equine flu update: more cases confirmed

Lucy Elder — Thu, 14 Feb 2019 13:25:53 +0000

Owners are being encouraged to discuss flu vaccination boosters with their vet as more cases are confirmed.

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) shared details of seven more positive tests across four counties yesterday (13 February). None of the affected horses had been vaccinated.

These included three non-thoroughbreds in Sussex; a non-thoroughbred in Worcestershire, who has been in contact with eight other unvaccinated horses; plus two non-thoroughbreds in Leicestershire who had recently arrived from Scotland and have been isolated.

A thoroughbred in Sussex, not on a racing yard, who had recently been imported from Ireland and developed a cough after arrival has also tested positive for the virus.

Cecil’s Horse Sanctuary in Hertfordshire also confirmed this morning (14 February) that it is on lockdown as it has confirmed cases of flu.

The British Equestrian Federation’s update today repeated its call for owners to be vigilant for signs of flu and to contact their vet with any concerns.

“As has been demonstrated in this outbreak, vaccinations are vital in tackling the spread of the disease so all owners must ensure their vaccination records are up to date,” said a BEF spokesman.

“If it has been longer than six months since the last vaccination, we strongly recommend discussing a booster with their veterinary surgeon.

“The BEF notes that some venues are insisting – as they are perfectly entitled to – that all horses must have received a booster within the last six months. This is a decision based on a local veterinary risk assessment so we would remind participants to check the requirements of venues before they set off.”

The spokesman also reminded owners to isolate any recently imported horses for at least 21 days.

A number of fixtures have been postponed, including British Eventing’s (BE) Jump Training Championships at Hartpury, which has been moved from 17 February to 19 April. This is because Hartpury requires a clear six days between vaccination and horses arriving at the venue.

“After consultation with various parties, it was noted that many owners will have taken the advised precaution and vaccinated their horses in the past few days following the outbreak of equine flu, and would therefore not be permitted on to the venue by Hartpury College,” said a statement from BE.

“Postponing the championships will now give as many competitors as possible the opportunity to compete at a later date.”

British Breeding’s stallion event at Addington has also been postponed from 16 February to 16 March.

Praise for the Animal Health Trust

Racing resumed in Britain yesterday (13 February) after a six-day absence.

Nick Rust, chief executive of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), thanked the AHT for its “round-the-clock efforts” to help the sport get back to normal.

Mr Rust also thanked all those involved, including owners, trainers, vets, stable staff, the Horserace Betting Levy Board for its financial contributions, MPs Laurence Robertson and Conor McGinn of the all-party parliamentary racing group and members of the veterinary committee that advised the BHA.

The trust dealt with more than a normal year’s worth of tests in a matter of days.

“Racing owes a tremendous vote of thanks to Dr Richard Newton [head of epidemiology and disease surveillance at the AHT], his team and all the vets who made some tough decisions which they knew would have difficult consequences for many in the sport,” said Mr Rust.

“It is very reassuring to have the solid support of world-leading scientists and veterinarians, and by their actions they have helped us reduce the risk of a prolonged outbreak which would have caused greater damage to the sport and further compromised the health of our horses.

“We are fortunate that our preparation for events such as this is aided by the sport’s long-term commitment to veterinary science and education, in which the Horserace Betting Levy Board plays a pivotal role.”

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He added all 190 declarations for today’s racing have been cleared to run, and the BHA is working as fast as it can to give the all-clear to horses and yards still awaiting results.

“As Clive Hamblin, the NTF veterinary advisor, said last night — we’re not out of the woods yet. With the influenza virus still affecting unvaccinated horses outside the British thoroughbred herd, continuing vigilance is vital,” Mr Rust said.

“We are likely to see more positive tests in Britain before the outbreak dies down but we now have the understanding we need to manage the risk to racing.”

He added: “The sport has received significant media attention over the last seven days and the message to the world has been clear from start to finish – this is an industry that puts the health and welfare of its horses first.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

Three new equine flu cases confirmed: authorities issue advice to owners

Lucy Elder — Wed, 13 Feb 2019 12:56:48 +0000

Owners have been reminded to isolate any new imports to their yard as more information has come to light following further positive tests for equine flu.

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) has reported three further positive tests in Kent, Derbyshire and central Scotland — all three horses either recently arrived from Ireland or had contact with other recently imported horses.

None of the horses were thoroughbreds. According to the AHT, a total of 20 horses with varying vaccination statuses have been in contact with the Kent case, with five reportedly showing similar signs.

In the Derbyshire case, 10 unvaccinated horses have been in contact with two of these showing similar clinical signs.

The latest update from the British Equestrian Federation (BEF), issued this morning (13 February), reiterated its previous calls for owners to be “vigilant” for signs of flu and to call the vet if they have any concerns.

“Vaccinations are vital in tackling the spread of the disease so all owners must ensure that their vaccination records are up to date, and if it’s been longer than six months since the last vaccination we recommend discussing a booster with their veterinary surgeon,” said a BEF spokesman.

“The BEF also notes that the AHT reports that in all three [of these new] cases, the horses that tested positive were recently imported from Ireland or had had contact with other recently imported horses.

“Therefore the BEF asks owners to consider that any contact with recently imported horses represents increased risk as there have also been outbreaks of equine flu in other member states including France and Germany.

“All owners should follow veterinary advice by isolating any recently imported horses for a period of at least 21 days.”

Racing resumes

Racing has restarted in Britain with strict biosecurity controls in place and point-to-pointing has also been given the go ahead for this weekend.

Only racehorses vaccinated within the last six months are allowed to take part and declarations of health must be provided before horses can be unloaded at both British Horseracing Authority (BHA) fixtures and point-to-points. Health declarations will also apply to companion ponies, those taking part in pony races as well as equines ridden by horse catchers.

The BHA also has a “risk framework” in place, which places yards in categories according to the level of risk they have been exposed to. The ability of horses to be allowed to race will depend on the category its yard has been placed in.

The new vaccination rule means a number of high-profile racehorses will miss runs this weekend, including 2017 Grand National winner One For Arthur, who had been due to run at Haydock on Saturday. There is a mandatory six-day stand down period for all racehorses following vaccination.

The Point-to-Point Authority (PPA) confirmed today (13 February) that all nine fixtures scheduled for the weekend (16 to 17 February) will go ahead as planned. The only difference is the Kings Troop race at Larkhill (17 February) has been cancelled, but all other races on the card will go ahead.

A PPA spokesman said while no further official biosecurity measures are being taken, it strongly advises all horseboxes are washed between trips and everyone involved with horses should change into clean clothes before attending.

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Equine flu: what horse owners need to know during the current outbreak in Britain

Some fixtures are offering refunds for horses affected by the new six-month vaccination requirement, provided evidence is given, while others are not.

“All meetings have wrestled with the problem of refunds for entries made by those whose horses have not been vaccinated within the new timelines, particularly as many are now likely to run at a loss — especially as they have had to pay for extra requirements,” added the PPA spokesman.

“No decision has been made lightly and I would ask that everyone accepts their decision in these difficult circumstances.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

‘Cautious optimism’ as racing allowed to restart

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 12 Feb 2019 11:23:54 +0000

There is “cautious optimism” over the equine flu situation, as racing is given the green light to restart.

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) decided last night (11 February), having consulted its vets and based on the latest information from the Animal Health Trust (AHT), that racing can resume tomorrow (13 February) – but with strict biosecurity controls in place.

The BHA has developed a “risk framework” to categorise trainers by the level of risk they have been exposed to. The ability of runners to return to racing depends on the categories their yards have been put in.

As an interim measure, the BHA has said only horses who have been vaccinated in the last six months will be able to run, and all trainers will have to provide health declarations on arrival at a racecourse.

BHA director of equine health and welfare David Sykes said: “The BHA and the veterinary committee agree that, on balance, the level of risk is acceptable for a return to racing.

“We have developed a risk model, which the veterinary committee support, in order to assist the return to racing.

“We will observe closely those horses who are taken to the racecourse and will intervene as a precaution to prevent a horse running or accessing a racecourse if we believe it might put other horses at risk of infection.

“The veterinary committee is of the view that an unprecedented amount of this disease has been identified in Europe. This is not a typical endemic period and it was essential that precautions be taken to protect the horse population.”

The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) said it welcomes the decision to resume “We’re cautiously optimistic that after analysis of thousands of samples by the AHT, there have been no further positive tests since the weekend,” a spokesman said.

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Equine flu: what horse owners need to know during the current outbreak in Britain

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Equestrian sport ‘monitoring’ equine flu outbreak after racing shut down

‘It is essential that any horses showing signs of possible equine flu, or horses that might have been in contact

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“The BEF continues to closely monitor the situation and assess the risk to health of UK horses while in regular consultation with specialist vets and experts in equine influenza and epidemiology with experience of managing previous outbreaks. Their assessment remains that it is not necessary to cancel other equine events subject to local disease status and local veterinary advice.”

The BEF urges owners to continue to be vigilant for signs of flu, and “strongly recommends” horses not vaccinated in the last six months are given boosters.

“As has been demonstrated in this outbreak, vaccinations are vital in tackling the spread of the disease. Therefore we recommend strongly that unvaccinated horses do not mix with other horses,” the spokesman added.

“Our advice remains that you MUST NOT take your horse to an event or competition if horses at your yard are unwell.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

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Disease experts call for ‘vital’ return to six-monthly flu jabs for horses

Mandatory flu vaccination was introduced in most competitive equestrian disciplines some 40 years ago, since when the scale and numbers of outbreaks have in general been relatively small.

But outbreaks such as those in the UK in 1989, 2003 and 2019 have “demonstrated EI’s epidemic potential, even in vaccinated horse populations”.

In the article Equine influenza bi-annual boosters: what does the evidence tell us? epidemiologists Victoria Colgate and Richard Newton “discuss what has been learnt from previous outbreaks and explain the evidence from mathematical models to show why bi-annual boosters are beneficial”.

“Mathematical models of EI transmission confirm that six-monthly rather than annual EI booster vaccinations are preferable to establish and maintain effective population level immunity to EI.”

The article adds that ideally, vaccine strains should be kept updated to ensure the most relevant disease strains are included but “this is a slow and expensive process for equine vaccine manufacturers”.

“In the absence of updated vaccine strains, bi-annual vaccination is strongly recommended to help compensate for antigenic drift between vaccine and circulating EI viral strains,” the spokesman said.

The authors added: “The equine industry must surely remain resolute and guided by scientific principles. The clear evidence from experimental, epidemiological and mathematical modelling studies shows why we must encourage clients to revert to a schedule of bi-annual boosters.

“Although the recent EI vaccine shortage has necessitated a temporary relaxation of competition vaccine schedules, we must now renew the message that six-monthly boosters are optimal and necessary,” said EVJ editor Celia Marr.

The governing bodies in the UK have not yet announced their flu vaccination rules for 2023.

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BEVA president David Rendle told H&H the cases show the importance of vaccination, and of biosecurity measures applied to horses arriving on yards.

“There was no requirement for vaccination prior to entry to the Shetland sale and some of the unvaccinated ponies that attended the sale developed ‘flu after they returned home and have spread infection to stablemates,” Mr Rendle said.

Mr Rendle stressed that these outbreaks are a reminder of the importance of vaccinating horses who mix with others, and those at home who come into contact with them.

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Competition horses’ six-month flu boosters out owing to vaccine shortage

At a meeting yesterday (8 September) the FEI board agreed to extend the booster interval from six to 12 months, “in combination with increased disease surveillance and a higher level of general biosecurity”.

To help fulfil the caveat, FEI vet rules concerning testing horses for equine herpes virus (EHV-1) will be expanded to include testing for equine flu.

“In their review of the potential impact of the vaccine shortage, the FEI epidemiology group found that even a short interruption to vaccine supplies could have a significant impact on several types of sport, breeding and leisure horses,” said FEI veterinary director Göran Akerström.

As is the case under the usual rule, horses must not have had a booster within seven days of arrival at a competition. The FEI said it will monitor the situation and provide regular updates.

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