British Equestrian Federation - EHV Situation Report

Wednesday 09 November 2016

British Equestrian Federation - EHV Situation Report

                                         
Animal Health Trust has confirmed the following: 

Equine Herpes Virus-1 (EHV-1) Neurological Disease.

On 8th November 2016, the Animal Health Trust reports two further confirmed cases of EHV-1 neurological disease on premises in Bedfordshire. These two cases had been in direct contact with the index case and secondary case reported on 27th October and 1st November 2016. One further case presented with respiratory signs and pyrexia and three further cases developed severe ataxia and were subsequently euthanised. Biosecurity measures have already been implemented. 

The above actions should minimise the reduction of spread from the affected premises. 
EHV respiratory infections are spread most commonly via the respiratory route (e.g. via droplets from coughing and snorting); certain cases can be contagious and can transmit infection to other horses via the respiratory route and by shedding virus into the environment. However, EHV does not travel long distances (greater than 50 metres) as an aerosol so close contact between horses should be minimised. All these sources of infection are intensified when infected horses are stabled, particularly in shared air space stables, e.g. ‘American barns’.  

Indirect EHV transmission can occur through the environment because the virus may survive for up to a month, once it has been shed by the horse and all premises should implement appropriate biosecurity protocols with appropriate protective clothing, equipment, utilities and hand washing facilities for staff specifically allocated when abortions occur, in order to prevent indirect spread of infection. This has been implemented as above in the Beds cases. 

Good hygiene is essential. EHV is destroyed readily by heat and contact with virucidal disinfectants. Stables, equipment and vehicles for horse transport should therefore be cleaned, steam cleaned and then disinfected with an approved disinfectant regularly as a matter of routine and certainly between occupants. Wherever possible virucidal disinfectant should be allowed to dry naturally in contact with surfaces in order to maximise the chance of destroying the virus; Separate equipment and clean water should be used for each horse or group of horses. 

Staff should be made aware of the risks of indirect (by people) transmission of EHV and hand washing/alcohol sprays should be provided and used, whenever possible, for the use of staff when moving between horses. 

Veterinary advice should be sought from practices managing the situation locally. Following these guidelines set out by AHT and HBLB should minimise the risk of spread but not remove it altogether. 

The above advice should be followed and ultimately the decision as to whether they wish to attend an event rests with the owner or responsible person. 

 

 
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