Equine disease surveillance: quarterly update.

This research journal article provides an update on the surveillance of Equine Viral Arteritis (EVA) in the UK, detailing confirmed cases in non-thoroughbred stallions and steps taken in disease control and prevention.

Detailed Explanation of the Research

• The study begins by recounting a series of Equine Viral Arteritis (EVA) outbreaks in the UK. The initial outbreak was confirmed on April 4, 2019, with two cases in Dorset, followed by a third case at the same location. A fourth case was confirmed in Devon, which was linked epidemiologically to the Dorset cases. Eradicating this equine disease is important, given its impact on horse health and potential to spread.
• A fifth case of EVA was confirmed on July 31, 2019, in Shropshire. This outbreak was deemed unrelated to the Devon and Dorset cases. The affected horse was an unvaccinated non-thoroughbred stallion showing no clinical signs of the disease. Interestingly, this horse hadn’t been used for breeding activities in the UK and was identified through a pre-breeding screening process.
• When the disease was confirmed in Shropshire, it triggered an investigative and response process due to the EVA Order 1995. The case was reported to the regional veterinary lead at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), and investigations are ongoing to limit the spread of the disease.
• In order to prevent the spread of EVA from the affected stallion, the owner intended to castrate it. This is because infected stallions can become persistent carriers of the virus and continue to shed it in semen. All contacts of the infected stallion were to complete serological testing for disease clearance, according to the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) code of practice for EVA.
• The researchers provide context by noting that the last reported case of EVA in the UK prior to these outbreaks was in 2012. The disease is endemic in many parts of mainland Europe and poses a significant danger as the majority of cases are subclinical and stallions can become chronic carriers. The study concludes by suggesting post-import testing and increased vigilance as measures to control the spread of EVA.