British Equestrian and our member bodies are currently monitoring a reported outbreak of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1 - neurological form) in France with cases potentially linked to the Le Mans venue. While this is an evolving situation and we await official confirmation, all members of the equestrian community who have recently been to, are currently in or intending to travel to/through France should be extra vigilant at this time. Please seek veterinary advice before travel and isolate any returning horses as per the quarantine protocols.
Member bodies will be in direct contact with any riders they believe may be impacted but the overarching advice is:
1) Horses linked to the event and associated venues returning to UK should undertake quarantine protocols under two options:
a. slow track (28 days quarantine with clinical monitoring and testing if EHV signs suspected)
b. fast track using paired swab and blood testing at least 10 days apart with clinical monitoring.
2) Heightened awareness for all horses returning to UK from France or transiting through the country into Europe or returning with reference to appropriate advisories on EHV as below.
EHV-1 is an air-borne disease that can be transmitted up to five metres via coughing, but also through direct contact, via people and shared equipment. It can cause respiratory and neurological signs, abortion in pregnant mares and death of young foals. Please see the British Equestrian web page or the below information sheets for further information:
BEF
EIDS
FEI
The biosecurity page on our website also has key information the help mitigate the risk.
We will continue to follow developments in France via our Equine Infectious Disease Advisory Group and work with member bodies to update any advice accordingly.