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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