[Preventative vaccination against EHV (equine herpesvirus) abortion].

This research article investigates the efficiency of prophylactic vaccination against equine herpes virus (EHV) abortion in horses on 37 stud farms from 1981 to 1987. The study found that when vaccination instructions were properly followed, there were no reported cases of virus abortion. But it equivocally noted the practical difficulties of strictly adhering to vaccination guidelines and emphasized that vaccination cannot replace good management practices.

Introduction and Methodology

• The study was conducted over a six-year period between 1981 and 1987.
• The research took place on 37 stud farms that have had a history of virus-induced abortions.

Findings and Results

• Researchers found numerous imperfections in vaccination schedules and immunization programs where Prevaccinol and/or Resequin were used with 23 of the participants.
• It was observed that in seven cases, prophylactic vaccinations were either not carried out at all, or corresponding questionnaires regarding the same were not answered.
• The most significant finding was that no case of virus-induced abortion was reported when the mare was properly vaccinated according to the stipulated schedule in a regularly vaccinated population.

Implications and Conclusions

• Although the data promotes preventative vaccinations against EHV, it is also highlighted that in practical scenarios, it is challenging to adhere strictly to immunization instructions.
• Nonetheless, the article warns against relaxing these requirements given the pervasive issues related to controlling herpes virus infections and avoiding any discrimination of the vaccination.
• The authors strongly claim that any deviation from vaccination instructions can increase the risk of illness. Moreover, they assert that vaccination is no substitute for sound management practices.