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We recommend that all horses should be vaccinated against Equine Influenza and Tetanus.
What is Tetanus
Tetanus is a disease caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani that has worldwide distribution and is in the soil. Bacteria enter the body via soft tissue injuries and puncture wounds particularly to the hoof. They produce neurotoxins which results in persistent contraction of muscle giving classic ‘rigid’ appearance like a ‘saw horse’.
If your horse has the misfortune to get tetanus, treatment is expensive drawn out and often fatal. Tetanus is almost totally preventative by vaccination.
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Tetanus Vaccination Course
A primary course consists of 2 doses given 4 – 6 weeks apart. The first dose should not be given before 3 months of age. A booster dose should be administered one year after completion of the primary course and thereafter every 2 years.
Pregnant mares should be given a booster dose about 4 – 6 weeks before foaling. Such foals should not start their primary course until 4 – 5 months of age.
What is Equine Influenza (Flu)
Equine influenza virus is a very contagious infection spread as a result of droplets released into the air by coughing and also from nasal discharge. In susceptible animals this causes high fever, a dry hacking cough and a nasal discharge. Horses will become depressed and reluctant to eat or drink for several days but usually recover in 2 to 3 weeks. It can be fatal in weaker and older horses.
Many horses in the U.K. are regularly vaccinated against Equine influenza and this helps reduce the chance of Large ‘Flu’ epidemics in the UK’s horse population. In vaccinated horses the clinical signs recovery roles are much reduced.
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Influenza Vaccination Program
The rules of most competitive events require that participating horses are vaccinated in accordance with Jockey Club protocol i.e.
1. Two vaccinations to be given no less than 21 days and no more than 92 days apart (primary vaccination)
2. Third vaccination to be given between 150 and 215 days after the second.
3. Booster vaccinations to be given at no more than yearly intervals (365 days)
Nb. Horses may not enter a racecourse for 7 days after any of these vaccinations.
The Primary tetanus course can be incorporated into the first two influenza injections.
Other Vaccines
Vaccines do exist for Herpes, Rotavirus and Equine Viral Arthritis. For more details please get in touch with the practice. |
