Emerging and Exotic Vector-Borne Equine Diseases: What is the Threat to the UK Horse Population?

With the increase in international transport of horses, climate change, and the discovery of Schmallenberg virus in Britain in 2012, it appears ever more likely that an outbreak of exotic, vector-borne diseases such as AHS or West Nile virus can occur in the UK. Apart from supportive treatment, there is currently no specific therapy for these diseases; and an outbreak of AHS in particular would devastate the UK equine industry. Veterinary surgeons would be key in detecting an outbreak, and so the purpose of this lecture is to review these important diseases and provide some guidelines on how veterinarians can prepare for possibile outbreaks in the future.

Equine / Diseases

Presented by Michael Hewetson, BSc BVSc PhD FHEA DipECEIM MRCVS
Senior lecturer Equine Internal Medicine at Royal Veterinary College