Everything You Need To Know About Equine Influenza

Equine influenza is a highly contagious flu-like virus that spreads quickly among horses. The good news is that it is rarely fatal in healthy horses. Zebras, donkeys and debilitated horses are not as lucky and may succumb to the disease. There are two types of the virus: Orthomyxovirus A/Equi-1 and Orthomyxovirus A/Equi-2. The latter has caused epidemics in equine populations and has become endemic in some countries.

Vaccinating a Horse by Patrick Buechner

The disease varies in severity depending on the overall condition of the horse. Factors such as age and health determine how severe the infection will be. Most horses recover over a period of a few days. One of the first noticeable signs of equine influenze is an high temperature in the range of 38C (101F) to 41 C (106F). 37C to 38C is the normal range of temperature for horses. The horse will seem lethargic and less alert.

The next symptom is usually a dry hacking cough which becomes moist over a period of a few days. Nasal discharge will be apparent and the horse may experience loss of appetite, in fact equine influenza symptoms closely resemble human flu symptoms. To confirm the diagnosis and to rule out other more serious respiratory conditions such as viral arteritis and rhinopneumonitis, the vet will take a nasal swab and run some blood tests.

Unless there are complications, supportive care and rest is all that is needed for recovery . For Every day of fever, the horse should be rested for a week with a minimum rest period of three weeks. NSAIDs and antibiotics may be prescribed by the vet if the horse has a fever over 40C (104F) or if the fever persists for more than 3-4 days. Antibiotics and NSAIDs will also be administered if there is a risk of pneumonia or in the case of pus in the nasal discharge.

Due to the fact that there is no cure for the flu, prevention is necessary. Prevention is achieved through vaccination and proper management practices. The introduction of new horses to a stable or barn should entail a two week isolation period to avoid the spread of the virus. The virus is transmitted easily between horses through the inhalation of respiratory secretions and an infected horse can infect others by simply coughing. As with all viruses equine influenza is spread through the air. Nasal and intramuscular vaccinations help prevent infection in healthy horses your veterinarian should be able to advise you on which to use depending on your location and your horse's environment and overall health.

Author Resource: Stal Amani is a world class equestrian centre located within close proximity from virtually anywhere in Europe. There are large arenas and cross country hacking is available in the surrounding forest areas. Stal Amani caters for most equestrian disciplines from novice to Grand Prix level. The facility also includes solariums for the horses and a fully staffed bar and taverna for our two legged guests http://www.stalamani.com

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