Potential vectors of equine arboviruses in the UK.
Authors: Chapman G E, Archer D, Torr S, Solomon T, Baylis M
Journal: The Veterinary record
Summary
# Equine Arboviruses: UK Vector Species Identification and Risk Assessment Growing concern about arbovirus outbreaks in both human and animal populations prompted Chapman and colleagues to conduct the first systematic survey of mosquito species on UK equine premises, addressing the gap between known disease risks and domestic surveillance data. Using Mosquito Magnet traps, red-box traps and larval sampling from standing water sources (tyres, buckets, ditches and pools), researchers identified several competent arbovirus vectors present across multiple sites. Ochlerotatus detritus emerged as the most abundant species with peak catches of 173 individuals in 72 hours, particularly in saltmarsh-adjacent locations, alongside densities of Culiseta annulata at over 75 per cent of surveyed premises—both species are recognised vectors of equine flaviviruses and other arboviruses. Whilst no arboviral diseases have yet been documented in UK horses, this evidence of established vector populations signals a latent disease risk that warrants vigilance and potentially proactive monitoring protocols. For equine practitioners, this research underscores the importance of vector control measures on premises—particularly water management and environmental modification—and highlights the need for clinical awareness should arboviral disease emerge in the UK equine population.
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Practical Takeaways
- •UK equine practitioners should be aware that mosquito vectors of serious viral diseases are present on equine premises and disease outbreaks remain a potential risk despite current absence of cases
- •Farm management should include elimination of standing water sources (tyres, buckets, pools, ditches) to reduce mosquito breeding habitat near horses, particularly near saltmarsh areas where vector densities are highest
- •Consider vector control measures and monitoring protocols as part of biosecurity planning, particularly given the welfare and economic impact these diseases could have if introduced to UK horse populations
Key Findings
- •Ochlerotatus detritus, a competent vector of flaviviruses, was the most abundant mosquito species trapped with a maximum catch of 173 in 72 hours, with highest densities near saltmarsh habitats
- •Culiseta annulata, a potential arbovirus vector, was the most widespread species, recorded at over 75% of surveyed equine premises in the UK
- •Multiple mosquito species capable of transmitting important equine infectious arboviruses are present on UK equine premises despite no recorded disease outbreaks to date
- •Water sources on equine premises including tyres, buckets, ditches and pools serve as larval habitats for arbovirus vector species