Equine influenza is always a concern for horse owners, and outbreaks can prove deadly for entire stables and equine communities. Therefore, it is reasonable to expect horse owners to worry about whether horses can catch swine flu. The H1N1 virus has created fear and anxiety all over the world.
Chances of Equine H1N1
Fortunately, there is little evidence to suggest that horses can catch swine flu. According to Erin Ryder of TheHorse.com, it is impossible to say that veterinarians will never detect swine flu in horses, but the chances are very slim.
Unlike many other types of influenza, the H1N1 virus is a "quadruple reassortant" virus, which means that it carries two genes from two different types of influenza, including a virus that has most frequently presented in pigs and the avian flu.
Equine H1N1 is not impossible, but the virus would have to mutate significantly in order to spread to the equine community. This does not mean, however, that equestrian professionals should not take steps toward keeping barns safe.
For one thing, even if horses don't catch swine flu, it is entirely possible for H1N1 to spread among people at the barn. A stable is a community with many different people entering and leaving on a daily basis. This, as in schools and church groups, presents a perfect environment for swine flu to spread.
Prevent Swine Flu
Stable owners can help prevent swine flu by educating their clients about H1N1. Explain that swine flu in horses is not likely to happen, but that people are still at risk. If people who board or take lessons at a barn come down with symptoms of H1N1, they should avoid visiting the barn until at least two days after their symptoms have disappeared.
If a child or adult who frequents a particular barn is diagnosed with swine flu, he or she should let everyone else know about the infection. This way, anyone who might have been exposed will have an opportunity to take precautions against getting the disease themselves.
Equestrian professionals can also help prevent swine flu by providing clients with a place to wash their hands. Children at the barn should not share food or drinks with one another, and they should avoid physical contact as much as possible.
Equine Influenza
There are numerous other types of equine influenza that can spread between horses at a stable. Those who own horses should take steps to protect their animals from infection, starting with regular veterinary care.
Large stables can build quarantine barns in which to keep ill horses. Three or four stalls is usually sufficient for a small- to medium-size stable, and this simple step can prevent the spread of equine influenza from one horse to another.
Flu Symptoms in Horses
If swine flu in horses ever does become an issue, the symptoms are likely to be similar to those of other types of equine influenza. Nasal discharge, coughing, sneezing and general lethargy are all signs that a horse is ill. If horse owners witness these symptoms, they should call a veterinarian immediately.
Sources:
Ryder, Erin. "Researcher Says Swine Flu in Horses 'Unlikely.'" TheHorse.com. 28 April 2009. Web. 4 November 2009.
"2009 H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)." CDC Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Web. 4 November 2009.
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