A 10-year-old Quarter Horse mare in Polk County, Wisconsin, was diagnosed with equine influenza on Sept. 25. The mare showed symptoms on Sept. 22, such as fever, cough, and nasal discharge. She is currently recovering, and four other horses were exposed to the virus.
EDCC Health Watch is a program by Equine Network that uses information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to produce and share verified equine disease reports. The EDCC is a nonprofit organization supported by industry donations to offer accessible infectious disease information.
About Equine Influenza
Equine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects horses, ponies, and other equids. The virus spreads through saliva and respiratory secretions from infected horses. Transmission can occur through horse-to-horse contact, aerosol transmission, or contact with contaminated items.
Symptoms of equine influenza include fever, cough, depression, weakness, nasal discharge, and enlarged lymph nodes. Monitoring your horse’s health and vaccination are important preventive measures. Vaccination is required by US Equestrian for competitions, and biosecurity protocols can help reduce the risk of infection.
Vaccination is crucial for protecting your horse from equine influenza. Following strict biosecurity measures such as quarantining new arrivals and disinfecting equipment can help prevent the spread of disease.