NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The state veterinarian has urged horse owners in Tennessee to take precautions after several horses were sickened with equine influenza virus.
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture said Friday that the virus was detected in horses who had returned from out-of-state events.
According to a release, equine influenza is highly contagious and the is spread by contaminated stable equipment and infected, coughing horses.
Symptoms may include fever, nasal discharge, cough, loss of appetite, and weakness. The department said sick horses cannot directly infect people with EIV.
“With EIV, it is much easier for horse owners to take preventive measures than to provide treatment,” Interim State Veterinarian Dr. Doug Balthaser said. “Maintaining hygiene procedures with stable equipment and vaccinating your horses is a great start for prevention efforts. Your veterinarian can help you decide the best vaccination plan for your horse.”
They released a few tips on preventing the spread of the virus:
- "Isolate newly introduced horses or horses returning from events for two weeks."
- "For events or stables, restrict entry to healthy horses only."
- "Don’t share equipment or supplies between horses, especially if one spikes a fever, has nasal discharge, or is coughing."
Contact your veterinarian for more information on equine disease testing.
