News Article

**Equine Influenza (Flu) Outbreak Information**

Friday, 8 February 2019 - 5:22pm

**Equine Influenza (Flu) Outbreak Information**

Over the last month, there have been confirmed cases of Equine Influenza in the North and East of the UK. Today, BHA postponed all race meetings to try and contain the outbreak.

Symptoms of Equine Influenza include:

Dry Cough
Snotty Nasal Discharge
Lethargy
Reduced Appetite 
High Temperature

The virus may affected vaccinated and unvaccinated horses, but the symptoms are usually milder in vaccinated animals. It can be transmitted through direct contact and can be airborne for up to 1 mile.

To reduce the chances of your horse catching flu, we would strongly recommended: 
- that any unvaccinated horses start their vaccine course as soon as possible. 
- If your horse has not had a booster for 6 months, you may wish to bring their booster forward.
- Alternatively you may wish to keep your horse at home and avoid mixing with other horses at competitions.

If your horse needs a Flu Booster Vaccination, we are offering 10% off the cost of all Flu Booster Vaccinations until the end of February 2019.

We use the vaccine brand Equilis® Prequenza which is one of the two recommended brands to use in this current outbreak.

Please click here further information on the current situation.

If you have any questions, or are concerned about your horse, please contact the practice on 01363 772860 (Option 3)