Background on the 2007 Equine Influenza outbreak

Equine Influenza (EI or Horse Flu) is an exotic disease to Australia. An outbreak occurred in late August 2007 lasting until late December 2007 during which time it spread across parts of New South Wales and Queensland. On 30 June 2008, following extensive surveillance around the country, Australia declared itself free from EI. It was an acute, highly contagious, viral disease causing rapidly spreading outbreaks of respiratory disease primarily in horses. Spread occurred mainly through the movement of horses (especially from events) and importantly it was evident that the movement of people and equipment played a major role. The last case to be detected was prior to Christmas 2007.

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Clinical Signs of Equine Influenza The main clinical signs of Equine Influenza (EI) are usually a sudden increase in temperature (to between 39°C and 41°C); a deep, dry, hacking cough; and a watery nasal discharge, which may later contain pus. Other signs can include depression, loss of appetite, laboured breathing, and muscle pain and stiffness. Affected horses, especially performance horses, can take weeks to recover. Donkeys may be more severely affected than horses. Once a horse has recovered and sufficient time (i.e. 30 days) has elapsed the horse poses no risk to other horses. Treatment Just like human flu, there are no specific treatments, though some veterinary options are available in the case of severely ill or very valuable horses. How is Equine Influenza Spread? EI virus is predominately spread by direct contact between horses, which is why horse movements in New South Wales and Queensland were restricted. However clothing, skin, bedding, vehicles and feed material can also contribute to the spread of the virus. It is essential that people follow good biosecurity practices when entering and exiting horse properties. Vaccination Similar to the human influenza vaccination there is no guarantee that a horse will not get sick after being vaccinated against EI. As part of the disease control strategy in New South Wales and Queensland vaccination was used in areas of high disease concentration.

We have detected that the browser used to view this content is missing the supported 'Flash plugin'. Once you have installed the 'plugin' found on the Adobe website, please return to this web page by using the back button on your browser. http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer Equine Influenza Video - Clinical Signs. This video was produced by Professor Chris Pollitt, School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland.

NOTE - Importation of vaccines from overseas The Federal Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has advised that personal importation of vaccines into Australia is not permitted. Should this be attempted, vaccines will be confiscated at border controls points. Penalties of up to $100,000 can be imposed as well as a potential jail sentence.