EQUINE INFLUENZA ALERT
The Irish Equine Centre have advised of an equine influenza outbreak in the Munster and Leinster region http://www.irishequinecentre.ie/Content/pdf/18th%20Jan%202019%20Equine%20Influenza%20Alert.pdf
All Trainers and handlers are advised to take guidance from their veterinary surgeons.
Horses in training are required to be vaccinated for equine influenza under Rule 90 and 91. Symptoms to be aware of in vaccinated horses range from an increased temperature and the horse being off feed to more severe respiratory signs.
In accordance with IEC recommendations, the IHRB is advising that all horses which have not had a vaccine containing Clade 1 virus within the last six months are given a booster vaccination as soon as possible. This situation is being closely monitored. While the IEC have confirmed that it is a disease outbreak, the IHRB does not currently require mandatory vaccination under Rule 91(i).
Testing for equine influenza is provided free of charge by the IEC – it is recommended that any trainer with any concerns should avail of this in order to establish their horses’ disease status. As with any contagious infectious disease outbreak, rapid diagnosis and effective management is key to recovery and minimising spread of disease.
Trainers and handlers who have concerns or questions in relation to this should contact,
The IEC on +353 (0)45 866266 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
and/or Dr. Lynn Hillyer, Chief Veterinary Officer IHRB on +353 87 1925 366
Date: 18th January 2019