Why is Controlling the Equine Influenza Outbreak Important?
EI would have a major impact on livestock health and on the horse industry if it were to become established in the horse population. All horses will be permanently at risk of infection with subsequent impacts on competitive and domestic activities. The disease has previously been exotic to Australia.
Top Equine influenza would have a major impact on the Australian horse industry if it were to become established here. Periodic epidemics sweep countries where the disease is endemic, and despite vaccination, these epidemics have a huge effect on the horse industry and events such as horse races, equestrian events and shows. The horse industry makes a valuable contribution to the Australian economy annually. The industry is big business, with over 100 breeds of horses, ranging from the racing thoroughbreds to kids’ ponies. There are also massive spin-offs in the entertainment and tourism sectors through event-related costs such as food, beverages and transport. Thoroughbreds represent only 20 per cent of horses but are the largest economic sector in the industry. Horse breeding is also an important sector, with 7000 thoroughbred mares bred each year.
EI would have a major impact on livestock health and on the horse industry if it were to become established in the horse population. All horses will be permanently at risk of infection with subsequent impacts on competitive and domestic activities. I am likely to lose money because of this disease. Can I seek compensation? No, there is no compensation for loss of income or production. These controls are intended to benefit the whole industry, including domestic horse owners, in the long term. Who is paying for the control activity? All emergency animal diseases, such as equine influenza, are cost-shared under existing agreements between government and the relevant industries. Initial activities are undertaken by the lead agency, in this case the NSW Department of Primary Industries. Backgrounder: Equine influenza November 13, 2006 Printer-friendly version (PDF) Causative agent Equine influenza (EI) is caused by a type A Orthomyxovirus. The viruses are 80 to 120 nanometers (nm) in diame
