Equine Influenza Treatment

Equine influenza is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. The infection can cause many symptoms. Although there is no treatment to rid the horse of the virus, the treatment of influenza is designed to manage the symptoms until the virus runs its course.

  1. Transmission

    • Horses get influenza by coming into contact with the respiratory secretions of an infected horse. Once these secretions have been inhaled, a horse is at risk of developing influenza.

    Symptoms

    • High fever, nasal discharge, and dry, unproductive coughing typically are the first signs of influenza, one to three days after the horse has contracted the virus. Horses with mild infections recover within two to three weeks; secondary infections like pneumonia are possible with more severe cases.

    Diagnosis

    • Although clinical symptoms are good indicators of influenza, definitive diagnosis requires examination of the mucous membranes of the horse's nose and throat. These samples are examined to determine whether the virus is present.

    Treatment

    • Rest and supportive care allow the horse to divert energy to battling the infection. Horses with fevers higher than 104 degree Fahrenheit are generally given a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug; antibiotics are typically prescribed if a fever persists for more the three days.

    Prevention

    • Prevention is the best method to ensure your horse does not get influenza. Vaccines are available and have been proven highly effective in prevention when given with regular boosters every three to six months.