Equine Influenza update

As a result of the increase in reported cases of equine influenza, the Equine Infectious Diseases Action Group has recommended that there needs to be a period of increased vigilance and monitoring to help prevent a further spread of the disease.

The following protocols will therefore be implemented with immediate effect by all BD venues to ensure the continued safe running of competitions during the current EI outbreak. Please note that these remain in line with our existing rules and regulations.

Passport checks

• Vaccination checks for all horses will now be in operation at BD affiliated venues for competition and training activity. These will take place either in advance or on arrival at the venue and before unloading.
• Unvaccinated / lapsed horses arriving on site will not be allowed to compete. This will also apply to all horses competing in unaffiliated activity on the same day.
• Please note that members are already required to have up-to-date vaccinations for their horses prior to competing, as stipulated in the Members’ Handbook.
• Refer to rule 10 ‘Equine Influenza Vaccination’ of the Members’ Handbook for guidance on the current vaccination requirements.

Vaccination protocols

We are strongly recommending that all members move to a six-month vaccination cycle to ensure optimal protection when mixing with other horses. If your horse’s last vaccination was more than six months ago, we recommend that you bring their annual booster forward to provide sufficient cover when competing during the summer season.

Additional resources

To support our members in reducing the risks of equine influenza, British Equestrian have created a number of resources to help identify the signs and symptoms of the disease, as well as best practice when it comes to biosecurity at home.

We also have expert advice from our Biosecurity Partner LANXESS with practical advice on how to mitigate risks. We strongly recommend that all members use an approved disinfectant on all areas that horses may be in contact with. VIRKON S is a Defra approved product that will kill common equine pathogens including Equine Influenza.

Further information can be found in our online Biosecurity and Equine Influenza resources hub by following the link below:

VIEW EQUINE INFLUENZA AND BIOSECURITY RESOURCES

These measures are intended to support organisers and competitors, by strengthening biosecurity at venues and reducing the risk of transmission when horses are travelling and mixing. We must act now to protect our horses against an increase in EI prevalence over the summer period and prevent a second spike in reported cases, as happened in 2019. 

The Senior Inter Regionals, due to be held at Sparsholt College this month, has already had to be postponed due to the outbreak and it is in all of our interests to avoid any further fixture cancellations, so your cooperation and understanding is appreciated.

By supporting the implementation of these measures, we can all play our part to help stem the spread of this disease and protect the safety and well-being of our horses.