Special Issue “Equine Viruses”: Old “Friends” and New Foes?

This research paper discusses the impact of both traditional and emerging viral diseases on the global equine population, aiming to provide an understanding of the epidemiological situation and stimulate further research on equine viruses.

Introduction

In this paper, the authors introduce the topic by outlining the scope of the equine population worldwide according to the Food and Agriculture Organization. They emphasize the importance of horses to many societies and industries, ranging from sport and leisure activities to their fundamental role in farming or transportation in many parts of the world. This makes understanding and combating equine viruses of critical importance.

Traditional Equine Viruses

• The researchers discuss known viruses that have affected the equine population for a long time. These diseases include Equine Influenza, Equine herpesvirus, and African horse sickness among others.
• Because these viruses have been present in the horse population for significant periods, there is usually a better understanding of their effects, modes of transmission, and methods of prevention and treatment. However, they still pose substantial challenges to equine health and welfare, and so ongoing research and monitoring are essential.

New Viruses Impacting Equine Health

• The authors also explore emerging viruses that have become significant threats to horses globally. The onset of such viruses might be due to shifts in environmental conditions, changes in host dynamics, or development of new strains.
• These emerging viruses may be more challenging to study and control because less is known about their pathology, and they may not respond to existing treatments. The recognition and research into these viruses are crucial for the development of effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Impact and Conclusion

• The paper discusses the economic impacts due to the loss of horses and disruptions to related industries as a result of these viruses. This includes direct costs related to the treatment and containment of these diseases and indirect costs due to lost productivity.
• In conclusion, the authors urge for more comprehensive research to understand the epidemiological situation of old and new equine viruses. They hope this understanding will lead to the development of effective ways of managing and mitigating the spread of these viruses, protecting both the horse population and the industries that rely on them.