DPI warns of EI snake oil

The NSW DPI has warned horse owners about natural or herbal medicines being promoted to combat equine influenza (EI).

“Products are being advertised as homeopathic alternatives to EI veterinary vaccine,” NSW deputy chief veterinary officer, Steve Dunn, said today.
“The only products proven to build any immunity against explosively contagious horse flu are those permitted for use by the State chief veterinary officer.

“In NSW we are using the best vaccine internationally available to combat the strain of the virus affecting our horses.

“Our message is buyer beware – these claims are not backed up by scientific evidence and the products are not registered or approved under permit by the national chemical regulator.

“In many cases these products promise the world and deliver nothing.
“Owners need to make their own minds up on homeopathic medicine products, but we urge them to do their homework and investigate product efficacy.”

Mr Dunn said the best way for horse owners to protect their animals’ health was to employ strict biosecurity.

“Horse owners shouldn’t be visiting infected properties or getting visitors from them - this is one way the disease transfers between sites,” he said.

“All horses should be kept away from boundary fences, owners should exercise thorough biosecurity before and after handling horses and should closely monitor the health of their animals.”