Companion Animal Welfare

Horse Welfare: Equine Influenza and Vaccination

Equine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory virus causing significant welfare harm in susceptible horses, with vaccination providing effective prevention.

Key Facts

Equine influenza spreads rapidly through aerosol transmission between horses
Clinical signs include high fever, nasal discharge, coughing and severe depression
Outbreaks cause significant welfare harm through respiratory distress and secondary bacterial complications
FEI and racing authorities mandate vaccination for competition horses
Annual or biannual vaccination provides effective protection and should be supported by appropriate biosecurity

Welfare Considerations

Equine influenza causes genuine suffering through fever, respiratory distress and prolonged illness lasting weeks in severe cases. Secondary bacterial pneumonia can be fatal. Prevention through comprehensive vaccination programmes requires commitment from all horse owners - unvaccinated horses in a community undermine herd immunity and put vaccinated horses at risk. Vaccination is one of the most impactful individual welfare actions for horses.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate your horses against equine influenza annually or biannually as recommended
Follow current vaccination protocols from your vet - requirements have changed in recent years
Report suspected influenza cases promptly to your vet and biosecurity authorities
Isolate new horses for at least 2-3 weeks before introducing them to resident horses