Grenfell horses come down with flu

Two properties at Grenfell in the Central West have been quarantined following positive test results from horses for equine influenza (EI) and vaccination of nearby horses will start within 48 hours.

A restricted area has been declared around the infected properties and the status of the Grenfell district has been changed from Amber to Red Zone.

NSW deputy chief veterinary officer, Steve Dunn, said while the Grenfell result was disappointing it highlighted the need to maintain biosecurity to stop the spread of EI.

“We are confident we can contain and eradicate the virus as long as we can rely on horse owners and other people who have contact with horses to exercise biosecurity,” Mr Dunn said.

“This means changing clothes after being around horses and washing all exposed areas of skin.”

Mr Dunn said NSW Department of Primary Industries surveillance teams have started tracing efforts to determine how the horses contracted virus.

Samples have been taken from nearby Grenfell properties and results are expected back late tomorrow.

Horse owners can contact the NSW EI hotline, 1800 675 888, for more information.

Supplied by NSW DPI