NSW DPI - About the vaccine

Note: If your horses are being vaccinated, you will receive an information sheet from the vet which lists the conditions of use for the vaccine and the possible adverse reactions listed below.

The vaccine being used is a live vaccine, ProteqFlu TE, imported into Australia from the manufacturers Merial Laboratory in France.

Each horse requires two primary doses of the vaccine two to six weeks apart. There is reported to be good immunity 14 days after a single dose, with the follow-up dose designed to extend the period of immunity. A booster dose is given five months later. After the booster dose, the vaccine provides protection for one year.

Before the horse is vaccinated, a microchip is inserted (if the horse is not already microchipped), so that every vaccinated horse can be identified and traced.

Adverse reactions are unlikely, but the following reactions to the vaccine have been observed overseas:

• A swelling (up to 5 cm in diameter and lasting up to four days) may occur at the injection site.
• Pain and heat can be associated with the injection site in rare cases.
  
• There may be a slight rise in the horse’s temperature (up to 1.5 °C) for one, or exceptionally two, days.
• In exceptional circumstances the horse may be depressed and listless with a reduced appetite on the day after vaccination.
• In exceptional circumstances a hypersensitivity reaction may occur. This may require appropriate symptomatic treatment by a vet.

See the vaccination FAQs for more information.