GUIDELINES FOR VETERINARIANS CALLED TO INVESTIGATE RESPIRATORY DISEASE AT A HORSE EVENT IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Equine Influenza has not been detected in Western Australia. Industry and government remain on high alert for equine influenza and recognise the potential for introduction of the virus to Western Australia with contaminated personnel and horse gear.

Biosecurity guidelines have been developed for horse events in Western Australia. These guidelines indicate that if horse(s) are detected with respiratory disease, the event organiser is required to call a veterinarian to assess the horse(s)
.
The following guidelines should be followed when investigating cases of respiratory disease at a horse event in Western Australia.

1. Ensure that you have sampling gear and are familiar with sampling procedures (procedures and lab submission forms available on the DAFWA website http://www.agric.wa.gov.au/content/pw/ah/equine_influenza_visiting.pdf)
(Note: the viral transport medium is best kept frozen, but can still be used if thawed and re-frozen, or kept at ambient temperature for a day. What is most critical is that the swab is kept cold after collection).

2. Ensure that you have biosecurity gear and are familiar with biosecurity procedures (see
http://www.agric.wa.gov.au/content/pw/ah/equine_influenza_visiting.pdf)

3. Collect details of owner and horse on attached form:

4. Clinically assess the sick horse(s)

5. Collect history including any:

• contact with personnel or introduced horse gear within the previous 7 days from infected properties or areas in the eastern states. history of respiratory disease in horses at the property of origin

6. Assess the index of suspicion based on the attached form for discussion with the DAFWA veterinarian on the Emergency Animal Disease hotline who will assist in making the assessment.

No Suspicion

Low index of suspicion

Sample the horse (10 ml clotted blood plus nasal swab), and call the Emergency Animal Disease hotline (1800 675 888) to arrange sample submission.

If you have concerns or wish to consult DAFWA, please call the Emergency Animal Disease hotline (1800 675 888). Inform the event organiser/animal health officer (steward) about your actions. The decision on whether to send the horse home is dependent on the event organiser’s policy and contingency
plan.
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