We are backing Keeping Britain’s Horses Healthy Equine Flu Awareness (EFAW) campaign from October 9 -15.
This will be a social media campaign aimed at educating and encouraging horse owners to vaccinate their horses, whether they are permanently on a yard or out competing, with an emphasis on the impact flu can have on equines.
Equine flu is a highly contagious disease that causes respiratory issues in horses.
Keeping up to date with flu vaccinations is the best way to prevent the spread of infection.
Vaccination is key to preventing the spread of the infection from one animal to another and protecting your equine from unnecessary suffering.
Equally, horses taking part in competitions need to be vaccinated, so it’s important to check with the relevant governing body’s rulebook on their requirements.
Handy Hints To Reduce The Risk Of An Equine Influenza Outbreak:
- Ensure equines are up-to-date with their vaccinations;
- Wash your hands between touching individuals/herd groups;
- Regularly disinfect buckets and tools;
- Don’t be afraid to ask visitors or professionals to change clothes/disinfect;
- Reduce unnecessary movements on and off the yard;
- Isolate new arrivals and those returning from other yards, for at least three weeks in separate housing;
- Disinfectant hand wash and foot dip facilities upon entrance.
The KBHH team is partnering with World Horse Welfare, the Equine Infectious Disease surveillance team, Minster Equine Vets, influencers and ambassadors like Bransby Horses to take the campaign to as many horse owners as possible.
Horse owners are being encouraged to support by following along on social media via @keepinghorseshealthy on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok, as well as interacting with content to raise awareness of this preventable disease.
As well as interacting with content to raise awareness of this preventable disease and advising horse owners with any concerns to contact their vet.
