Equine Flu Outbreak – what do you need to know?

 So is vaccination worth it?

Yes – because one of the interesting things about equine flu is that vaccination seems to offer some protection by reducing the severity of illness even if horses do develop symptoms. Vaccinated horses who develop symptoms usually recover within 48 hours (although they need to be rested for longer), whereas unvaccinated horses tend to be ill for 2-10 days. Unvaccinated horses are also usually more ill, and more likely to develop complications.

 Where did it come from?

There have been cases of Equine Influenza reported sporadically in mainland Europe, however, none of these appear to be the same strain of the virus as in the current UK outbreak. At the moment, we don’t know exactly where this came from.

 How can the risk of infection be minimised?

Fundamentally, by minimising horse-horse contact. This is why racing has been suspended until AT LEAST 13th February, to try and break the chain of transmission.

On a yard, suspected cases should be isolated as far as possible, but as the disease is so contagious, it’s important that all “In contact” horses are also placed in quarantine for at least 3 days (the usual incubation period).

Vaccination is always wise – even if vaccines don’t offer full protection against this strain, it is likely that they will reduce the severity of infection.

 Should I be topping up my horse’s vaccines?

In recent outbreaks, it was noticed that horses who had been vaccinated within the last 6 months were less likely to develop disease than those vaccinated within a year, but more than six months ago. The immune memory for flu seems to fade quite rapidly, and some people are advising “top-up” vaccines. This is something to talk to your vet about, however, because the vaccines available in the UK are only licensed for annual use once the primary course is complete; as such, a “top-up” would strictly speaking be off-license use.

 How would I know if my horses were affected?

The typical symptoms of Equine Flu are:

A dry cough, often described as being harsh-soundingFeverLaboured breathingTiredness and lethargyReduction in appetiteSwollen glands under the jawRunny nose (may be watery or thick)

Of course, there are many other illnesses with similar symptoms, but any horse showing these should be seen by a vet as soon as possible.

 How can it be treated?

Essentially, just like human flu – rest and plenty of fluids! The vast majority of horses will recover well as long as they get enough rest – the old rule of thumb was a week off work for every day of fever. Antibiotics are not effective against viruses, and are not required in uncomplicated Equine Influenza, and are only indicated if pneumonia or other secondary infections develop.

Soft, wet food, a warm stable, lots of fluids, and plenty of TLC will see most horses make a full recovery.