Spread cheer and not horse flu at Christmas

Tuesday 11 December, 2007

South Australian horse owners are being reminded not to take risks that expose them or their animals to horse flu over the Christmas/ New Year holiday period.

Providing South Australia remains free of horse flu, Primary Industries and Resources SA expects non-racing horse events to resume early in 2008.

Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Rob Rahaley said the number of people travelling during Christmas/ New Year significantly increased the risk of equine influenza being brought into South Australia.

People can not contract horse flu, but the virus can be carried on equipment, gear, boots, shoes, clothing etc. and transferred between horses.

“People movements between infected and non-affected states is a big risk but horse owners can continue to help keep SA free of equine influenza without being anti-social,” Dr Rahaley said.

“People movements have proved the biggest issue to manage during this outbreak but there are some simple, common sense things that will help ensure recovery plans remain on track.

“Make sure that visitors to horse properties have not been in contact with horses interstate for at least 72 hours and do not let people from interstate bring their own equestrian gear on to your property, including boots.

“For those people travelling interstate, if you plan to interact with horses, make sure you have washed your clothes (and cleaned your boots) and showered before returning home and that you stay away from any horses in SA for at least three days.

“Now that we are working towards a resumption of activities in 2008, it would be very disappointing if a simple mistake puts the plans of equestrian clubs across the state on hold.”

Primary Industries and Resources SA is asking that people wanting permits for events early in the New Year do so before 17 December 2007 to ensure processing prior to Christmas. Event organisers are encouraged to plan as far ahead as possible.

More information:

  • PIRSA website – www.pir.sa.gov.au/horseflu
  • PIRSA hotline – 1800 675 888
  • Equestrian clubs and associations
  • Horse SA 0402 488 306