Equine flu outbreak revealed at Lamorlaye trainer's yard in France

France Galop released a statement on Monday evening revealing an outbreak of equine flu at a yard in Lamorlaye, which forms part of the wider Chantilly training centre.

No details have been given as to the identity of the trainer, nor as to the number of cases and whether any infected horse has raced in recent days.

France's RESPE agency - which monitors the spread of contagious disease among the wider horse population - recorded its first cases last December, though they were restricted to riding schools and other equestrian establishments.

Lamorlaye forms part of the greater Chantilly network of training gallops and yards, home to more than 2,000 horsesCredit: Edward Whitaker

France continued to allow runners from other European countries, including Britain, during the recent outbreak at the yards of Donald McCain and Simon Crisford, cases which led to the BHA suspending racing for six days.

During that time extra biosecurity requirements were introduced by France Galop for racehorses travelling into the country from other European durisdictions.

The only recorded case within the thoroughbred population in France was isolated to a single mare at a breeding establishment in Normandy on February 20.

But the fact that there is now a confirmed infection in an area where more than 2,000 horses are trained is bound to be a source of major concern.

The RESPE is yet to give details of the Lamorlaye case, while France Galop's statement said simply that "the trainer and their vet have taken precautions to control the infection."

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