Horse Equine Influenza: Vaccination and Biosecurity

Equine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease requiring vaccination and biosecurity to protect horses at competitions, yards, and transport.

Key Facts

Equine influenza spreads rapidly via respiratory droplets - entire yards can be affected within days
The virus mutates rapidly, requiring regular vaccine strain updates to maintain efficacy
Symptoms include fever, nasal discharge, cough, and depression lasting 2-3 weeks
Competition horses must have current vaccination records - FEI and national bodies set requirements
Unvaccinated horses at competition venues spread infection to naive animals across regions
Rest periods of 1 week per day of fever are recommended to prevent cardiac complications

Welfare Considerations

Influenza causes significant respiratory distress and systemic illness. Poorly managed cases or insufficient rest can result in lasting cardiac and respiratory damage. The disease spreads explosively in unvaccinated populations. Vaccination is highly effective and represents a collective welfare responsibility - unvaccinated horses at competitions endanger all horses present.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate horses according to national body requirements and veterinary advice
Keep vaccination records updated and carry them to all competitions and sales
Isolate new arrivals to yards for 14-21 days before mixing with resident horses
Report suspected respiratory disease outbreaks to your vet immediately
Follow competition body vaccination schedules - requirements vary by discipline
Support surveillance programs tracking influenza strains to guide vaccine updates