Challenges to exotic disease preparedness in Great Britain: The frontline veterinarian's perspective.
Authors: Spence Kelsey L, Rosanowski Sarah M, Slater Josh, Cardwell Jacqueline M
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Exotic Disease Preparedness in British Equine Practice Exotic disease outbreaks represent a genuine biosecurity threat to the UK horse population, yet primary care veterinarians—often the first line of detection—have received limited attention in preparedness research. Spence Kelsey and colleagues conducted qualitative interviews with frontline equine practitioners across Great Britain to explore their knowledge, confidence and readiness to identify and respond to exotic pathogens, examining the systemic barriers that compromise early disease recognition. The research revealed significant gaps in preparedness: whilst veterinarians recognised their critical role in biosecurity, many reported inadequate training, unclear reporting protocols, insufficient access to diagnostic resources, and confusion over regulatory responsibilities between themselves, industry bodies and government agencies. These findings carry direct implications for all equine professionals involved in horse health management—from farriers and physiotherapists who may notice clinical signs, to nutritionists advising on herd-level resilience—as preparedness failures affect not only individual practice but the entire industry's vulnerability to incursion events. Addressing these gaps requires clearer communication pathways, targeted continuing education on exotic disease recognition, and collaborative frameworks that define roles across the veterinary and equine professional community.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •As a frontline practitioner, you play a critical role in exotic disease surveillance and preparedness—familiarize yourself with signs of reportable exotic diseases in horses
- •Establish clear communication protocols with other stakeholders (authorities, other practices, horse owners) for disease reporting and response
- •Identify gaps in your own preparedness planning and work to address them through continued education and protocol development
Key Findings
- •Primary care veterinarians in Great Britain face significant challenges in exotic disease preparedness for horses
- •Multiple stakeholder groups share responsibility for maintaining freedom from exotic disease pathogens in the horse industry
- •Limited current knowledge exists regarding the state of exotic disease preparedness within the British horse industry