Holding out for the Fall- Showrite
Anna Hood, DVM Miamitown Equine Veterinary Services
There are currently several outbreaks of Equine Influenza, a virus that causes respira-tory disease in horses. The clinical signs include coughing, lethargy, nasal discharge, loss of appetite and a high temperature (over 101.5°F). It is highly contagious and can be spread by direct contact between horses, through air-borne droplets when horses cough, or by indirect transfer on hands, clothes, and equipment. Here’s how to reduce the risk of your horse being affected: -The influenza vaccine is only effective for 6 months and should be boostered in both spring and fall. This current outbreak may be a new strain not yet included in the vac-cine, but the vaccine may help shorten the duration of the infection through cross pro-tection. -Avoid sharing water troughs, buckets, hitching rails, hay nets and other equipment, especially at gatherings of horses such as shows and trail rides. -Quarantine any new arrivals to your farm for at least 2-3 weeks. Anna Hood, DVM Miamitown Equine Veterinary Services
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