Equine influenza--a global perspective.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Equine Health
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology

Background:

• Equine influenza (EI) is a highly contagious respiratory disease affecting horses globally.
• Outbreaks have substantial economic impact on the equine industry, with endemic presence in Europe and North America.
• Inadequate quarantine and importation of infected horses have led to major outbreaks, such as in Australia (2007).

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of current knowledge and recent research on equine influenza.
• To summarize key aspects including epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical signs, diagnosis, management, and prevention.
• To discuss advancements in diagnostic techniques and evaluate vaccination strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current understanding and recent research on equine influenza.
• Synthesis of information on epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical characteristics, and diagnostics.
• Analysis of management and prevention strategies, including vaccination.

Main Results:

• Equine influenza outbreaks are widespread, posing a significant economic risk.
• Factors like subclinical infections in vaccinated horses and poor quarantine facilitate spread.
• Recent research has advanced diagnostic methods and understanding of vaccination efficacy.

Conclusions:

• Effective management and prevention of equine influenza are crucial for the global equine industry.
• Continued research into epidemiology, diagnostics, and vaccination is essential.
• Addressing importation risks and quarantine protocols is vital to control outbreaks.