A 7-year-old Quarter Horse gelding in Michigan tested positive for equine influenza on Aug. 20, as reported by the state’s Department of Agriculture. Despite being vaccinated, the horse displayed symptoms such as lethargy, nasal discharge, and a fever.
The specific county where the case is located has not been disclosed, and no quarantine has been implemented at this time.
EDCC Health Watch is a marketing program by Equine Network that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and distribute verified equine disease reports. The EDCC is a nonprofit organization supported by industry donations, providing accessible infectious disease information.
About Equine Influenza
Equine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness affecting horses, ponies, and other equids. The virus spreads through saliva and respiratory secretions, commonly through horse-to-horse contact, aerosol transmission, or contact with contaminated items.
Symptoms of equine influenza include high fever, coughing, depression, weakness, nasal discharge, and enlarged lymph nodes. Monitoring your horse’s temperature regularly at shows can help detect infection early. Vaccination is crucial for protection, with proof required for competitions. Biosecurity measures such as quarantining new arrivals and disinfecting equipment can help prevent disease spread.
Vaccination is an important and inexpensive way to protect your horse. US Equestrian requires proof that horses have had an equine influenza vaccination within the six months prior to attending organization-sanctioned competitions or events. Your veterinarian can help you determine what other vaccines your horse might benefit from.
In addition to vaccinating, following strict biosecurity protocols can help reduce your horse’s chance of infection and disease. Such measures include quarantining new equine arrivals at barns, disinfecting buckets and equipment, and preventing nose-to-nose contact between horses.