Zoetis UK has announced the results of a recent survey of about Equine Herpes Virus (EHV), revealing that more than 25% of respondents did not clearly understand how EHV is transmitted and the associated risks to their horses.
Equine Herpes Virus (EHV) is a highly contagious, potentially fatal airborne disease, and every horse or pony is susceptible. It can lead to respiratory problems and poor performance and at worst it may result in severe and potentially fatal disease.
More than a quarter of respondents did not understand exactly how EHV is spread nor the risks of disease to their horse, with up to one-in-four owners unaware that EHV could be transmitted via air droplets, shared equipment, handlers or bedding. This was despite 98% recognising equine gatherings as a risk factor for disease transmission and 75% reporting that they frequently left their home premises with their horses.
The survey results showed a high compliance amongst respondents for flu and tetanus vaccination, at 95%, yet in contrast only 17% of owners reported vaccinating for EHV despite 86% believing vaccination significantly reduces the spread of the disease.
Encouragingly, 78% of owners not currently vaccinating said they would be likely to vaccinate now that they understood the potential impact of EHV on their horse. Significantly 93% of horse owners not currently vaccinating their horses said they would do so if their vet advised it.
“The respondents showed that there is still a lack of awareness about aspects of EHV and how to protect their horses via preventative management strategies,” said Zoetis national equine veterinary manager Dr Wendy Talbot.
“We are collaborating with veterinarians to provide information and support, to help owners routinely reduce the risks of this serious disease and we encourage horse owners to seek advice from their vet.”
