Equine disease surveillance: quarterly summary.

Summary

# Equine Disease Surveillance: Q1 2016 Editorial Summary During the first quarter of 2016, disease surveillance data compiled jointly by Defra, the Animal Health Trust and the British Equine Veterinary Association revealed concerning trends in both domestic and international equine health, with particular emphasis on emerging threats to the UK industry. African horse sickness activity in South Africa and a notable rise in EHV-1 abortion cases across British studs formed the cornerstone of this quarterly report, highlighting the ongoing risk of exotic disease introduction and the resurgence of endemic reproductive pathogens respectively. The surveillance testing programme conducted between January and March documented disease patterns and diagnostic submissions that informed both immediate biosecurity concerns and longer-term epidemiological trends. For UK equine professionals, these findings underscore the critical importance of maintaining rigorous health screening protocols, particularly around breeding stock, whilst staying informed about international disease movements that could affect importation policies and competition access. Access to this quarterly intelligence allows farriers, veterinarians, physiotherapists and other equine specialists to contextualise clinical observations, advise clients on appropriate preventive measures, and anticipate emerging health management priorities within their respective disciplines.

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Key Findings

• •African horse sickness was identified as an outbreak concern in South Africa during the surveillance period
• •Rising cases of EHV-1 abortion were documented in the United Kingdom during January to March 2016
• •National and international disease outbreak data were compiled from surveillance testing across the quarter

Conditions Studied