Equine Influenza

Sometimes referred to as the horse flu, equine influenza is one of the most widespread horse afflictions in the world. Targeting the horse's respiratory system, the influenza virus damages the lining and mucous membranes in the animal's respiratory tract in a rather short period of time. And though it affects horses of all health types, those most at risk are weaker or younger horses, especially those which are housed in poorly ventilated, closed quarters with other horses.

Once in the animal's nose, the horse flu incubates for a period of between three to five days. And then as treatment begins, it may take several weeks before the virus is eliminated from the body and the damaged mucous membranes have a chance to fully repair.

Symptoms

A horse with equine influenza has an abnormally high body temperature and nasal discharge, which is usually clear in color. Pneumonia is also frequent secondary infection for horses with this condition, as their immune systems are compromised. In severe cases of equine influenza, the horse may develop heart and liver complications.

Causes

There are several strains or subtypes of the equine influenza virus, but one of the most common flu viruses affecting horses is the Type A influenza. All flu viruses are airborne spreading from horse to horse, although some horses are only carriers of the virus, never showing any symptoms and even appearing healthy. These horses, however, are still contagious.

Diagnosis

The symptoms of equine influenza are usually fairly self explanatory. Nevertheless, your veterinarian may conduct various tests on the horse to confirm the diagnosis, including blood tests and a respiratory examination.

Treatment

Treatment for equine influenza is fairly extensive, as it has become a sort of epidemic around the world. Rest is of the utmost importance; at least six weeks is recommended in order to allow the damaged tissues from the illness to fully heal. It is also important that influenza infected horses be stabled in clean and well-ventilated areas. There is some evidence that the dust found in stables can affect horses suffering or recovering from equine influenza.

If the horse has contracted a secondary infection due to the flu, there are antibiotics and other forms of medication the veterinarian will prescribe to make the mucous in the animal's respiratory tract less tacky, liquefying it and allowing it be easily expelled.

Living and Management

Life after the flu should return to normal for the horse, except in extreme cases. Otherwise, provide a well-ventilated area and plenty of rest so that it may recover quickly.

Prevention

The only thing that has prevented the horse flu from becoming a full-blown epidemic has been an equine influenza vaccine. One caveat, however, is the horses must be vaccinated three to four times a year because the vaccine does not work for very long. There has been research into creating a vaccine that extends immunity for several months, sometimes as long as 10 or 15 months. Consult your veterinarian on the advances of such vaccines and its application for your horse.