Equine viral arteritis (EVA) causes acute respiratory disease and abortion in horses, with vaccination and biosecurity measures essential to preventing outbreaks with significant welfare implications.
EVA causes welfare harm through acute disease and the distress of abortion. Pregnant mares that abort lose offspring they have carried for months - the physiological and potentially psychological impact is significant. Foals born weak or dying shortly after birth following EVA infection cause additional welfare concern. Stallions that become persistent carriers may face restrictions on their use that affect their management and welfare. Acute disease causes fever and discomfort comparable to equine influenza. Prevention through vaccination, biosecurity, and appropriate testing before breeding is the welfare-protective approach.