Owning a horse is a wonderful and often transformative experience. If you’re fortunate enough to have your own hooved companion, you’ve probably already experienced how precious friendship with a horse can be. Of all, horse ownership is not all soft whickers and magnificent moments. Horses may be huge and strong, but they are also extremely susceptible to illness and injury. One of the numerous things you should be on the alert for is equine influenza, sometimes known as horse flu. A local equine Derby, KS veterinarian discusses some of the basic basics about equine influenza here.

What is Equine Influenza?

Equine influenza, like the human flu, is a highly contagious respiratory disease. It affects horses and other equines, including donkeys and mules. It can also infect other animals, such as dogs. 

This particular illness is caused by two distinct influenza viruses. These two viruses, H7N7 and H3N8, are distinct from those that cause human and avian flu, yet they are closely linked. Influenza A has various subtypes that can become zoonotic, or spread from one animal to another. If you’re curious about the names, the H stands for hemagglutinin and the N for neuraminidase. Both of these proteins can be located on the virus’s surface. There are 18 varieties of H subtypes and 11 N subtypes, totaling 198 potential combinations. 

Different strains can share genetic information. This is also true for many of the more dangerous flus you’ve heard about, including swine flu and avian flu.

When Did Equine Influenza Begin?

Equine influenza is not new. Outbreaks have been reported throughout history. In fact, when horses were our primary mode of transportation, EI epidemics had a terrible impact on the economy. Today’s outbreaks primarily affect the horse industry, but can be quite damaging.

How Does the Equine Flu Spread?

Equine influenza is highly contagious. The flu can be transferred both directly and indirectly. Unfortunately, horses can become contagious before exhibiting any symptoms.

Here are some of the most typical ways that the disease spreads:

• Direct contact with infected animals.
• Transmission via clothes
• Brushes
• Buckets 
• Tack

EI outbreaks are more likely in regions with a high concentration of horses, such as shows, races, and auctions. Outbreaks often spread quickly, especially during show seasons. The more crowded a location, the greater the risk. Horses are also more vulnerable during transportation, particularly if they share a trailer or use one that has recently been occupied by an infected horse.

A few crucial points regarding transmission:

• Airborne droplets from coughing horses can carry the virus up to 150 feet.
• A single infected horse can transmit the flu over a whole barn.
• Horses can shed the virus for up to two weeks following infection.
• Equine flu can also be carried by humans via their hands, clothing, or the use of contaminated brushes or tack.
• Many horses are immune to the virus, but they can still transmit it. That means that even if a horse appears to be in excellent health, he could contaminate the entire herd and stable.
• One of the most worrying aspects of horse flu is its rapid spread. The virus normally takes one to five days to incubate. That speed enables rapid spread. This can be especially risky for events like exhibitions and races.
• Transmission rates typically rise throughout the cold months.

What Are the Clinical Signs of Equine Influenza?

One of the most common signs is watery nasal discharge. Other symptoms include coughing, fatigue, loss of appetite, and weakness. Your horse may also have swollen lymph nodes.

Are There Vaccines for Equine Influenza?

Fortunately, vaccinations are available. These immunizations are your primary weapon in the fight against equine influenza. Your veterinarian will be able to provide you detailed advice on the best vaccine and booster regimen. This will vary slightly. If your horse travels and/or shows frequently, he may require boosters every six months. A pregnant mare, on the other hand, should be immunized before foaling.

What Are Treatment Options For  Equine influenza?

Horses who are healthy and have no difficulties can typically be managed with supportive care. Rest is quite important. The conventional guideline is to give Silver one day off for each day he has a fever.

Equine flu affects some horses more severely than others, just like it does in humans. If your horse’s fever exceeds 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius), your equine veterinarian may offer nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or, in certain situations, antibiotics. As usual, consult with your horse veterinarian before providing any medicine.

What is the prognosis for horses with equine influenza?

Most horses recover within two to three weeks. However, while rare, some get very, very sick. Horse flu can even be lethal. 

It’s also crucial to note that certain horses will be extremely sensitive to subsequent illnesses while they heal. In general, take in mind that each horse’s recovery period may differ slightly. Horses who were seriously impacted may take up to 6 months to fully recover. When it comes time to start reintroducing your horse to his normal riding/working schedule, take it slowly. Ask your equestrian veterinarian for particular guidance.

How Can I Protect My Horse from Equine Flu?

Preventing horse influenza is not an exact science. It’s also tough to avoid in horses who interact with many other horses, either directly or through stablemates. However, there are things you can take to mitigate the danger.

• Horses should be quarantined for a specified period of time after being purchased or relocated to a new barn.
• Maintain comprehensive cleaning techniques. This applies not only to stalls, but also to tack and brushes.
• Don’t share your horse’s equipment with his stablemates. (Tip for boarders: use patterned duct tape to designate your items and prevent them from getting mixed up with other horses.)
• Take extra precautions during epidemics and at events like shows.
• Always wash your hands before and after touching or grooming your horse.
• Keep an eye out for the warning indicators mentioned above. If you see any of these symptoms or anything else that appears to be wrong, please contact your Johnston, IA equine veterinarian immediately.

Your horse veterinarian will be able to provide you with more precise information and suggestions based on your horse’s age, health, activity level, and dangers. Don’t be hesitant to ask questions—that’s what we’re here for!

Book an appointment with our Derby, KS equine veterinarians

Are you looking for an excellent equestrian vet in the Derby, KS area? Please don’t hesitate to contact us. As your Derby, KS horse vet, we are committed to providing exceptional horse veterinarian care.