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Vets urge vigilance after EHV-1 outbreak in Spain
EHV-1 spreads among horses through close contact and coughing.
“It is essential that returning competitors comply with the quarantine plans” - BEVA.

Horse owners and returning competitors are being urged to take every precaution possible to prevent the spread of equine herpes virus-1 (EHV-1) following an outbreak in Spain.

The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) said the virus, which has been spreading at showjumping events in Valencia, is now responsible for outbreaks in Europe and the Middle East.

David Rendle, chair of BEVA’s Health and Medicines Committee, said: “The consequences of this outbreak have been devastating and understandably, there is anxiety that horses returning to the UK may be carrying the virus and infection may spread back in the UK.

“To prevent this from happening, it is essential that returning competitors comply with the quarantine plans that have been put in place by British Showjumping. If returning horses are quarantined effectively, and ideally screened using suitable laboratory tests on their return, then the risk to the wider UK equine population is very small.”

He continued: “British Showjumping and the BEF have acted swiftly and responsibly with support from BEVA to put controls in place. Assuming that everyone continues to act responsibly and follow the advice, then the risk of this fatal disease spreading among UK horses will be minimised.”

EHV-1 is a fatal disease that spreads among horses through close contact and coughing. The virus can be transmitted via clothing or other objects, but it is more likely to spread between horses within stables and enclosed buildings.

According to the latest FEI update, there have been 11 equine fatalities related to the EHV-1 outbreak in Spain. Two of these deaths occurred at the venue in Valencia, five in a veterinary hospital in Valencia, two in Barcelona, and two in Germany.

Other countries with confirmed cases are Belgium, France, Italy, Qatar, Sweden and Switzerland. For more about preventing the spread of EHV, visit britishshowjumping.co.uk

 

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.