Equine influenza

It is caused by the equine influenza virus. It is endemic in the UK and outbreaks occur from time to time.

• equine influenza is not a notifiable disease in Great Britain
• the most effective ways to reduce its risk and spread are:
  • vaccination, and 
  • good biosecurity
• if you suspect equine influenza, contact your veterinary surgeon

Signs of equine influenza include:

• fever
• coughing
• nasal discharge
• loss of appetite
• lethargy

Equine influenza can be transmitted as follows:

• through the air when infected horses cough or sneeze
• by direct contact between horses
• indirectly via people, equipment, vehicles or contaminated surfaces

The disease can spread quickly in environments where horses mix, such as:

• livery yards
• events and competitions
• sales and markets

Horse owners and vets should remain vigilant for clinical signs of equine influenza. You should ensure appropriate biosecurity measures are in place. In particular,  during periods of increased horse movement. These periods include the show, event and breeding season.

If you suspect equine influenza:

• contact your veterinary surgeon 
• isolate the affected horse from others
• limit movement of horses on and off the premises
• follow veterinary advice 

Horses that have been in contact with a suspected case should be monitored closely.

Vaccination is the most important way to reduce the risk and impact of equine influenza. Good biosecurity and hygiene are key to prevent its introduction and spread.

You should seek advice from your veterinary surgeon on appropriate vaccination schedules. This should include boosters for your individual animals.

Vaccination rules can differ between events and gatherings. You should confirm vaccination requirements with event organisers or the relevant governing body.

You should:

• isolate new arrivals before mixing with other horses
• avoid sharing equipment such as buckets, tack or grooming tools
• clean and disinfect equipment, vehicles and stabling
• wash hands and change clothing after contact with other horses
• monitor horses daily for signs of illness and before travelling

Organisers of equestrian events and gatherings should ensure that:

• appropriate biosecurity measures are in place, and 
• they have carried out risk assessments 

This will minimise the potential for disease transmission. 

Other measures may include:

• vaccination requirements for attending horses
• ensuring facilities are properly cleaned and disinfected
• promoting good biosecurity and hygiene practices among participants

Equiflunet viewer (on equinesurveillance.org) shows where and when equine influenza has occurred in the UK, and the world. 

• Horse Illnesses: Equine Disease Prevention (on bhs.org.uk)
• Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance (on equinesurveillance.org) 
• Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) International Codes of Practice (on codes.hblb.org.uk)
• World Organisation for Animal Health (on www.woah.org)