![horse](/0101/bhs-logo.jpg) |
The
British Horse Society advises members to exercise common sense
over virus outbreak |
The
British Horse Society is advising its members to exercise common
sense over the recent outbreak of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV1 &
EHV-4) and is ready to offer help in the way of information to any
horse owner during the current time of concern.
Defra
has not imposed any equine movement restriction since the cases
of neurological strain of the virus (EHV-1) have been confirmed,
mainly in the Bromley Common area of Kent where at least seven horses
have died as a result.
BHS
Head of Welfare, Kerstin Alford, advises, "We fully appreciate
horse owners' concern at this worrying time, and we want to help
as much as we can. Our advice is to monitor your horse's health
closely and take sensible precautions when hacking out or travelling,
avoiding any areas where the virus has been confirmed. Should your
horse be unfortunate enough to show signs of the virus try to keep
him isolated and use disinfectant every time he is handled, both
before and afterwards. If possible, whoever is handling an infected
horse should not come into contact with other horses until the virus
has abated.
"The
virus does not spread over long distances through the air and infection
is usually passed from horse to horse by contact but if you are
concerned you should contact your vet for further advice."
For
information or advice on the EHV virus, contact the BHS Welfare
Dept (tel: 08701 299992) or visit the BHS website: www.bhs.org.uk
Information on EHV and on regions where infected cases have been
identified can be found on the Animal Health Trust website: www.aht.org.uk
www.bhs.org.uk
.
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