28/04/2026
Equine Influenza alert 💥💥💥💥💥
So far this year at least 27 outbreaks have been recorded in the United Kingdom (and that is likely to be the tip of the iceberg) including as seen below often in vaccinated horses. This disease is highly contagious with airborne spread over significant distances (up to 5km). Research has clearly shown that although vaccination provides good protection initially this does wane. To increase the level of protection, both the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and the FEI have made it compulsory to vaccinate every 6 months. However most other organisations, although they have advised 6 monthly boosters, have not made it compulsory.
Five good reasons to vaccinate every 6 months
Optimal Immunity Levels Against Rapidly Declining Protection
While many vaccines offer a full year of protection, studies show that in some horses, antibody levels begin to decrease from six months post-vaccination. Boosters at 6-month intervals ensure that antibody levels remain high, offering better protection against infection compared to the 12-month mark.
Increased Protection in High-Risk/Traveling Horses
Horses that travel to competitions, shows, riding clubs, or boarding stables are frequently exposed to new environments and unvaccinated or unknowingly infected horses. A 6-month booster schedule keeps immunity high in these high-risk scenarios, protecting horses when they are most likely to encounter the virus.
Compliance with Competition Rules (FEI/BHA/Clubs)
Following significant influenza outbreaks in 2019, many governing bodies, including the FEI (Fédération Equestre Internationale), have strict rules requiring horses to have been vaccinated within the last 6 months + 21 days to be eligible for entry.
Minimizing the Risk of "Vaccine Breakdown" During Outbreaks
In recent outbreaks, a significant percentage of vaccinated horses still contracted the virus, with many having gone more than 6 months without a booster. A 6-month schedule reduces the likelihood of "vaccine breakdown" (where vaccinated horses still get sick) and keeps antibodies active against the latest viral strains.
Boosting Herd Immunity to Protect Vulnerable Horses
Equine Influenza is endemic, but only about 40% of the population in some regions are vaccinated. More frequent vaccination increases the "herd immunity" in a yard, significantly reducing the amount of virus shed into the environment, which helps protect young, elderly, or immunosuppressed horses that are at risk of severe disease
As a practice we very strongly advise that you should vaccinate against equine influenza every 6 months - we vaccinate our own horses this way to keep them healthy!!!!!
