Equine Influenza Eradication Strategy

Dear Sir/Madam

I am both a veterinarian and a horse owner in Queensland. I have one horse recovering from equine Influenza (EI) in Morgan Park, Warwick, and another in Rochedale, Queensland, currently without EI.

I am extremely disappointed that there does not appear to be a coherent effective and scientifically based plan for EI vaccination, as a means to eradicate the disease from Australia. The current DPI plan appears to be to vaccinate racehorses and high value horses as a priority, at the expense of vaccination of the ring/buffer containment zone.

This decision certainly seems to be politically and economically based, rather than in the best interests of eradicating the disease from Australia.

I am indeed extremely disappointed with the entire manner that this outbreak has been handled. There have been many instances of biosecurity measures being put in place far too late to be effective, which has resulted in the spread of EI not only up into Queensland (Morgan Park 24th August), but throughout Queensland (Minden/Rosewood, Laidley, Brookfield)

In addition, it appears that the current biosecurity measures that have been implemented are only slowing the spread of the disease - the constantly increasing number of infected properties is hard evidence. In addition, recent decisions to permit Thoroughbreds to race were poor ideas based on a politics and economics, rather than on science. This has resulted in accelerated spread of the disease and will have far greater economic impact on the racing industry than if proper biosecurity had been maintained for a little longer, while an appropriate vaccination eradication plan, such as the paper outlined below, had been implemented.

It appears that Australia is now at a crucial time of decision. A scientifically based plan of action is needed to eradicate this disease, and the implementation needs to be clear and concise and immediate. I draw your attention to the paper by Peatfield, Crowley, Kannigieter, and Roberts (24th September 2007) published at www.horsedeals.com.au under the heading Economic Vs. Scientific.

This paper outlines what appears to be a sound eradication strategy, with the most effective use of vaccine. This strategy, according to the paper, will allow areas outside the containment area to return to normal activity within one month. This would allow racing to resume in many areas - something that should at least sway the decision of the Department of Primary Industries and Politicians.

I sincerely hope that the decision makers involved in the EI outbreak read this paper thoroughly as an immediate priority, before large numbers of vaccines are distributed. This paper is based on very sound scientific principles, and gives us an excellent chance of still eradicating EI at this late stage.

Yours Sincerely,

Dr Kylie Schischka BVSc

(Letter sent to Department of Primary Industries 26th September 2007)