News & Media

17 October 2007 Equine Influenza Update Number 2

Day 53 of Equine Influenza

• 5,756 Infected Properties in New South Wales and Queensland

Situation from Interstate

The suspected Equine Flu cases in Tasmania over the weekend have proven to be unfounded. There are no suspect cases of equine influenza in Tasmania, horse standstill has been lifted and horse can move around Tasmania. Race meetings are going ahead.

Racing NSW is calling for a national thoroughbred vaccination program to prevent another equine influenza outbreak. Race dates for The Golden Slipper, AJC Derby and Doncaster Handicap have been changed. "The racing industry cannot afford to go through another horse flu crisis" – Peter V'Landys CEO Racing NSW.

The National Management Group (NMG) has agreed to order sufficient vaccines for a total of 93,160 horses in NSW (44,320 horses), QLD (37,740 horses) and VIC (8,900 horses) with up to three vaccine doses each. Note vaccination does not stop the virus altogether, it can only help control it by reducing virus shedding and the severity of the symptoms.

Current Updates from RWWA:

RWWA applied for an allocation of vaccine and funding from the Commonwealth Government – the Commonwealth Government has responded by stating that it is premature to stockpile vaccinations for WA, but has not ruled out a vaccination program for WA.

RWWA's Contingency Plans for Equine Influenza will be presented at the WA Equine Influenza Industry Group meeting tomorrow evening, 17th October, at the RWWA offices. The Department of Agriculture and Food and the Recreational horse industries will also present their plans.

RWWA has sent employees interstate on study trips to learn from eastern states counterparts in managing an equine influenza outbreak.

For more information contact:

Mr Richard Burt
Chief Executive Officer

Media Contact:
Drew Mazalevskis
Ph: 9445 5184