Britain Taking EVA Precautions

Mares going from Ireland to Britain are being tested for Equine Viral Arteritis, a practice which has been routine for mares visiting the country from the rest of Europe.

Tests on horses from two Irish studs have shown evidence of exposure to the disease which, through good safeguards, has not affected any Thoroughbred stallion in Britain.

EVA has two forms, respiratory and venereal. British Stallions are vaccinated twice a year against EVA, a practice which has been resumed following an interruption in the supply of vaccine early last year.

The positive test results this year are believed to be linked a previously-reported outbreak of EVA at an Irish stud in 2003.

British breeders are advised to become familiar with the code of practice on EVA, strictly apply the code in consultation with their vet, test and vaccinate breeding stallions and teasers, ensure that all mares coming from abroad, including Ireland, are isolated and tested for EVA, ensure that only horses of equal EVA status from holdings of equal EVA status are transported together to stud to avoid lateral spread and, if in doubt, request proof from the transporter.