HERPES ALERT

This is just to advise our members of an outbreak of Equine Herpes (EHV) in the South East of England that has resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 12 horses, and the cancellation of several shows.  How big is the risk and how can we minimize the threat to our horses? 

EHV normally causes respiratory disease and abortions, and usually affects young horses and pregnant mares.  But in some of the recently reported cases, disturbing - and sometimes fatal - neurological symptoms have occurred, and non breeding, performance and leisure horses have been affected.

Symptoms of the respiratory illness caused by EHV include : high temperature, depression, lack of appetite, nasal discharge, lethargy and coughing.

Neurological symptoms include : Altered gait, head tilt, difficulty passing urine and faeces, weakness and paralysis of the hind limbs .

Reducing the risk : EHV is contagious, but not over long distances by air.  Spread is usually caused by horse to horse contact (or person to horse, or horse to contaminated bucket/tack/feed or water). 

BHS Head of Welfare advises: monitor your horse's health closely and take sensible precautions when hacking out or traveling, avoiding any areas where the virus has been confirmed". 

There have been outbreaks of EHV in Essex, Gloucestershire, Kent/Surrey borders, Sussex and Bromley Common in Kent, where seven horses have died.  Check the Animal Health Trust website www.aht.org.uk for updates. 

If you go to shows where there may be a risk, ensure you and your horse do not touch other strange horses - and do not let them touch you!!  Take your own feed, water and buckets, and do not let your horse graze - take some of your own hay.  

If you are in any doubt LEAVE YOUR HORSE AT HOME AND CONTACT YOUR VET IMMEDIATELY.