Horse owners in amber zones to maintain biosecurity

Horse owners are urged to remain vigilant in maintaining good biosecurity and hygiene around their animals despite the upgrading of red zones at Mudgee and Temora to amber this week.

"While this week’s transition is excellent news we can’t afford any relapse in these areas," deputy chief veterinary officer Steve Dunn said today.

All horse fittings, equipment and tack must be decontaminated after use.

People who have any contact with horses, including farriers, veterinarians, trainers, and horse owners must also shower, wash clothing and change into clean clothes between visits to properties.

"We are aware that some infection has clearly been the result of human transfer of the virus," Mr Dunn said.

"That’s why it remains vital that everyone who comes in contact with horses or horse equipment must maintain strict hygiene and biosecurity.

"You need to wash or shower thoroughly and put on clean clothes before and after you have any contact with horses, ponies or donkeys to ensure you don’t unwittingly transfer the virus."
Mr Dunn said soap, household detergents and disinfectants can easily kill the EI virus.

"At the very least you should wash your hands and arms with hot water, disinfect footwear and horse gear, wash your clothes and decontaminate or wash your hat," he said

"And you need to ensure that any person or equipment coming onto your property has been cleared. Don’t be afraid to ask people where they have been and what cleaning procedures they have followed."

While vaccination is making big inroads in containing equine influenza, vigilance to hygiene standards remains the key to eradicating the virus.