Your browser is out-of-date!

Update your browser to view this website correctly. Update my browser now

×

Shropshire horse diagnosed with equine viral arteritis

The UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer confirmed a new case of equine viral arteritis in a non-thoroughbred stallion on a premises in Shropshire on 31 July 2019. Investigations are ongoing but at present this appears to be unrelated to the cases in Devon and Dorset earlier in the year. There is no risk to public health.

The owner has indicated that they intend to have the stallion castrated, which will address the risk of further disease spread. Restrictions on breeding and movement have been put in place on the animal and will remain in force until the risk has been mitigated.

Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer, Graeme Cooke, said: “We are taking action to limit the risk of the disease spreading by placing breeding and movement restrictions on the animal. A full investigation is continuing to consider the source and possible spread of the infection. Owners of mares and stallions are always urged as a routine to have their horses tested before they are used for breeding.“

These findings remind us that we must all be vigilant for signs of disease and how essential it is to following strict biosecurity measures.”

You can help prevent the disease spreading by:

Equine viral arteritis is a notifiable disease in all stallions, and in mares that have been mated or inseminated in the last 14 days. If you suspect the disease you must report it to APHA immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, contact your local Field Services Office

Veterinary Practice

Improve Veterinary Practice (part of the Improve International Group) is an online knowledge and information hub for veterinary professionals across all specialties. It provides reliable, useful and interesting content, written by expert authors and covering small animal, large animal, exotics, equine and practice management
sectors of the veterinary surgeon and nursing professions.

Improve Veterinary Practice also offers a subscription-based membership, offering CPD courses and much more for the whole veterinary community.

Improve Veterinary Practice exists to inspire and inform your day-to-day work, and enable your ongoing professional development.


More from this author

Have you heard about our
IVP Membership?

A wide range of veterinary CPD and resources by leading veterinary professionals.

Stress-free CPD tracking and certification, you’ll wonder how you coped without it.

Discover more