Biosecurity

The requirement for frequent vaccination in the field to limit virus shedding and hence transmission is apparent, the researchers said.

“The fragmented movement of horses combined with numerous sites of co-mingling makes tracing the potential spread of a disease outbreak a necessary part of an infection control plan, both locally and nationally.”

Study in the United States assessed strangles outbreaks against weather data. Patterns were identified.

With growing international horse movements, the need for improved disease surveillance is greater than ever.

“We must gain a better understanding of how these pathogens are transmitted among horses and determine the zoonotic potential.”

“These similarities can be exploited to leverage and improve surveillance for the detection of West Nile Virus outbreaks.”

Samples from more than 1200 horses were taken for analysis to detect three flaviviruses.

A thorough disinfection of stables is required after outbreaks to reduce the risk of other horses becoming infected.

Global health security experts are pushing to implement a ‘One Health’ approach globally, with human, animal and environmental health organisations working together to prevent, monitor and respond to public health emergencies.

Virus arrived in Europe in birds migrating from Africa.

West Nile virus is now the most widespread flavivirus pathogen in the world.