The Horse Flu (or Equine Influenza or EI) refers to varieties of the Influenza virus A, which is a disease of horses. The incubation period for the virus is 2-5 days.
SYMPTOMS
- Dry hacking cough
- Fever (heightened temperature between 39 and 41 degrees Celsius)
- Running nose
- Depression
- Reluctance to eat or drink
SPREAD
The Horse Flu has about a 100% infection rate for those horses that have not been vaccinated for the virus. It is very easily spread, from using the same brush on two horses, to transferring droplets of nasal fluid between two horses.
- Direct contact between horses
- Contact with contaminated equipment
RECOVERY
This usually take approx 2-3 weeks.
VACCINATION
This can be done, it involves a course of 2 doses at approx 4 weeks apart and then a follow up set of boosters at least every 12 months.
DAMAGE
- Mares can lose their foals due to having influenza
- The young or the old can die from catching EI
TREATMENT
The virus cannot be treated with any medications, so a lot of care is to be taken in keeping the horse in a safe, clean environment while it recovers.
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY HORSE?
- Keep your horse away from others
- If you have been in contact with another infected horse, do not come into contact with any other horses for at least 72 hours
