BHA urges vigilance after rise in non-thoroughbred equine flu cases

The BHA has urged racing professionals to remain vigilant against the threat of equine flu after the Animal Health Trust revealed a rise in reported cases among non-thoroughbreds.

Last week saw the second highest number of confirmed outbreaks in a week since the start of 2019.

Racing in Britain was shut down for six days in February because of the equine flu outbreak, leading to new vaccination rules being introduced. All runners in Britain must be vaccinated against the disease within the last six months.

Robin Mounsey, head of media at the BHA, said: "The latest update from the AHT reaffirms the need for continued vigilance when it comes to equine flu, and the importance of biosecurity measures and keeping vaccinations up to date."

Dr Richard Newton, director of epidemiology and disease surveillance at the Animal Health Trust, said: "As the competition season is getting into its busiest period the number of outbreaks is likely to continue to rise with the movement of horses across the country.

"Flu is still as much of a threat as it was earlier this year. Our advice to horse owners remains the same; be aware of the clinical signs of equine influenza and boost your horse’s vaccination if it was given more than six months ago.

"Importantly, isolate new arrivals in your yard and continue to practice good biosecurity at competitions and at home."

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