Why Vaccinate?
Equine infectious diseases such as equine influenza virus and equine herpes virus can affect a horses performance and health. Vaccination helps prevent infection and if a horse does catch the disease will decrease the severity of clinical signs and spread to others.
Vaccines stimulate an immune response by making the body believe it is being attacked and creating antibodies to fight the infection, so when natural infection occurs the immune system is primed to produce a fast and strong response.
‘Flu Vaccination
Jockey Club ‘Flu Vaccination Rules:
• Two primary vaccinations against ‘flu no less than 21 days apart and no more then 92 days apart
• Booster between 150 and 215 days after the second primary vaccination
• Booster vaccinations at intervals of not more than a year apart
FEI Rules:
• Primary course as above
• Followed by a booster every six months
Vaccination can be given from 5 months of age.
What is Equine ‘flu?
Equine ‘flu is a highly infectious viral disease, with an incubation period of 1-3 days. Horses often have an increased temperature and cough during the early stages, followed by nasal discharge. It is transmitted by direct horse to horse contact and indirect contact via humans, feed or equipment.
Equine Herpes Virus
Pregnant mares should be vaccinated in the 5th, 7th and 9th month of pregnancy to reduce risk of abortion.
What is Equine herpes virus?
Can cause respiratory disease, severe loss of form, abortion, paralysis.
Can remain dormant and be reactivated by stress factors e.g. transport, competing, breaking-in.
Tetanus
Neurological disease caused by toxins produced by a soil dwelling bacteria, usually introduced through puncture wounds. Incubation period 10-14 days. Stiffness, prolapse of third eyelid, stiff extended tail.
Vaccinate from 5 months.
Primary Vaccination: Two vaccines 4-6 weeks apart.
Repeat every 3 years or sooner.
Tetanus vaccine is often combined with the 'Flu Vaccine.
Remember that preventative health care in the long run helps to cut veterinary costs.
