Answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about equine influenza. Note: For medical concerns regarding your horse's health, please consult your veterinarian. Please do not send us specific queries about clinical symptoms your horse is experiencing as we are unable to address such questions.

Influenza in horses is similar to "flu" in humans. The first symptoms are often that the horse or pony seems lethargic, depressed and develops a harsh cough which usually lasts around 10 days. Other symptoms include a high temperature and the horse or pony suffers from a lack of appetite and some nasal discharge.

Equine influenza is highly contagious and has been shown to be responsible for up to 66% of viral respiratory disease in horses. Protection is critical for all horses because it spreads so rapidly. In fact, one horse can infect an entire stable in a matter of days.

RIRDC Equine Research and Development Program - Equine influenza is a major virus disease that causes flu like symptoms in horses and is from the group of viruses that causes flu in humans. This is a major viral disease present throughout Europe, North America and parts of Asia.