Horse Equine Influenza Biosecurity Between Yards

Equine influenza spreads rapidly between yards through movement of horses, equipment, and people, requiring vigilant biosecurity to protect horse populations.

Key Facts

The 2007 Australian equine influenza outbreak infected 76,000 horses after a single biosecurity failure
A 2019 UK outbreak spread through competition horses across multiple yards within days
Influenza virus survives on surfaces, equipment, and clothing for several hours
New arrivals should be isolated for 14-21 days before mixing with resident horses
Vaccination provides protection but does not prevent infection - exposed vaccinated horses may still spread virus
Competition horses have heightened exposure risk that should trigger increased biosecurity protocols

Welfare Considerations

Equine influenza outbreaks cause widespread suffering - sick horses experience fever, respiratory distress, and prolonged recovery affecting performance and wellbeing. Large-scale outbreaks requiring movement bans cause additional stress from disrupted management. Yard-level biosecurity, isolation protocols for new arrivals, and vaccination compliance protect individual horses and the wider equine community. Biosecurity is a collective welfare responsibility.

What You Can Do

Isolate all horses arriving at your yard for 14-21 days in a separate airspace
Wash hands and change clothing after visiting other yards before handling resident horses
Do not share grooming equipment, feed buckets, or tack between yards
Vaccinate all horses including those not competing - they provide a disease reservoir if unvaccinated
Report suspected influenza outbreaks to your vet and local equine health authorities immediately
Follow competition body guidelines for vaccination and biosecurity at shows