Not airborne, experts says

THE most likely cause of the equine influenza (EI) outbreak in Australia was transmission by people or equipment which came into contact with an infected horse from either Mascot Airport or the Eastern Creek Quarantine Centre, an inquiry was told today.

Dr James Gilkerson of the Equine Veterinary Association said it was unlikely the virus could have been airborne and almost impossible that it was already in Australia.

The first horse confirmed with EI was Coolmore stallion Encosta De Lago who tested positive on August 17 while he was housed at Eastern Creek.

More than 40,000 horses in NSW have since contracted EI, causing losses of millions of dollars to the racing and breeding industry.

The inquiry before Commissioner Callinan is expected to last for at least a month with more than 100 witnesses to be called.

AAP

November 13, 2007