URGENT

18 October 2007

EQUINE INFLUENZA VACCINATION NUMBERS -
REQUEST FOR INFORMATION

One of the primary aims of the Western Australian Horse Council (WAHC) is to represent, advance and promote the interests of horse owners, breeders, users and supporters. It also has an objective to collect, disseminate and propagate data and to liaise with Government Departments, clubs, associations, individuals and other entities with respect to the horse and the Horse Industry.

The recent outbreak of Equine Influenza (EI) in eastern Australia has seen WAHC take on an active role of liaison with the “non-racing” members of the Horse Industry and various other entities. This has involved in particular liaising with the management groups and committees that have formed as a result of the EI outbreak.

As part of the liaison on the EI incursion, data is being gathered to enable appropriate levels of planning and development of risk management strategies. WAHC has been asked if it can gather data that will quantify the number of non-racing industry horses and ponies currently resident in WA. This number would be required in order to ensure adequate stocks in the event that a vaccination program for EI is undertaken in Western Australia. Would you please assist us in gathering this important data by estimating the number of horses and ponies owned by members of your club / organization. I understand that providing exact figures will be difficult, so your most accurate assessment will be acceptable.

Please note:

• the data you provide will be passed onto other entities, however raw figures only will be passed on and individual entities/organizations will not be identified; and
• this is not an inference that there is any intent to establish a vaccination program in Western Australia. The information is being gathered for information, research and strategic planning purposes only.

Your assistance with this matter would be greatly appreciated.

Diane Bennit
Chairperson