Equine Influenza in Horses

Also called "horse flu," equine influenza by itself is usually not fatal. However, it causes severe secondary symptoms like bacterial rhinitis, which can kill the horse, according to the "Horse Owner's Veterinary Handbook."

  1. Types

    • There are five types of equine influenza viruses, known as Types A, B, C, Thogoto and Isa. The most common is type A.

    Prevention

    • There is a vaccination for equine influenza type A. The vaccines available in the United States are a killed virus, while in Europe a modified live virus is available.

    Symptoms

    • The most common symptom is a dry cough that after a couple of days begins to bring up mucus. Other common symptoms include high fever, runny nose and eyes, loss of interest in food and lack of energy.

    Significance

    • Equine influenza is highly contagious to other horses, ponies, mules, donkeys and zebras. Any horse with equine influenza needs to be isolated from other animals, especially horses.

    Misconception

    • Although equine influenza is highly contagious, it is not contagious to humans. However, dogs can sometimes get equine influenza.