EQUINE INFLUENZA TALKING POINTS

• Equine influenza is a serious disease of horses. This disease has not previously been reported in Australia and should not be confused with avian influenza – they are separate diseases.  Two suspect cases of equine influenza are currently being investigated in Australia.

• Transmission of equine influenza to humans under natural conditions of exposure has not been reported in the past.

• Horses that are to enter Australia from countries other than New Zealand undergo post arrival quarantine procedures at Eastern Creek Quarantine Station in New South Wales and Spotswood Quarantine Station in Victoria.

• Between 17 and 20 August, at the Eastern Creek Quarantine Station, 3 horses recorded elevated temperatures and signs consistent with a respiratory infection. Another three horses have subsequently developed nasal discharge and minor temperature elevations.

• Affected horses and those at risk of exposure on the Eastern Creek Quarantine station have been tested for equine influenza as a precaution.  Five samples gave a positive result to a PCR screening test. Blood test results from the initial three horses with clinical signs suggest that one of the three horses had recent exposure to equine influenza.

• On 24 August 2007, some horses at Centennial Park Equestrian Centre displayed signs consistent with a respiratory infection. Eleven horses have given a positive result to an influenza screening test. Confirmatory testing is currently being undertaken.

• Any links between the two locations are being investigated.

• NSW animal health authorities have implemented a state wide standstill on movement of all horses which includes donkeys and mules.

• On the basis of the test results to date and the clinical signs observed, the horses in the quarantine stations will remain in quarantine until it is determined that the group does not represent a risk of introducing equine influenza.

• Additional diagnostic samples are being collected from all horses at both Quarantine Stations in an attempt to clarify the situation.

• A meeting of Consultative Committee on Emergency Animal Disease was held on 25 August to discuss the situation with state/territory animal health authorities and industry. It was a agreed that on the evidence available that there is a strong suspicion of equine influenza in horses at Eastern Creek Quarantine Station and Centennial Park Equestrian Centre.

• It was agreed that all states and territories would implement a standstill on the movement of horses for at least the next 72 hours. Animal health authorities recommend that all equine events and gatherings should not take place during time.

• Racing clubs and other equine associations are being asked to cancel or postpone any meetings or events.

• Horses at events outside NSW can return directly home provided the travel is only within the state where the event is being held..

• Horse owners and carers are being asked to avoid contact between their horses and other horses where possible and not to move their horses.

• Horse transporters are requested to abide by the standstill and ensure their vehicles and equipment are cleaned before any future use.

• A call centre has been established to provide general information to horse owners and media will be advised of the telephone number shortly.

• Where owners or carers suspect their horse may be showing signs of respiratory illness they should call their veterinary surgeon or the emergency number 1800 675 888.

• Background

• Equine influenza is an OIE listed disease that has the potential for very rapid spread. It can cause illness resulting in loss of performance and deaths in young foals and debilitated horses. The disease would result in serious economic loss within the equine industry due to morbidity and mortality expected in a naïve population

• Australia and New Zealand are the only countries with significant equine industries that are free from equine influenza. Horses in Australia are not vaccinated. An outbreak would have a major impact on the equine stud and racing industries, as has been shown by outbreaks in South Africa and Hong Kong.

• Quarantine programs have been developed for the safe movement of horses internationally for breeding, racing and other purposes. At this time of year there is a high demand on quarantine facilities in Australia for importation of horses for racing and breeding purposes.