This is a brief overview of current vaccination protocol in the UK, it is designed as a guide only and to explain the reasons that we vaccinate. I have also given a brief overview of the diseases themselves. If you require any further information please contact us.
In the UK we routinely vaccinate against three things; Equine influenza, Tetanus and Herpes. Herpes and Influenza are both viruses which affect the respiratory system causing lethargy, pyrexia (increased temperature), nasal discharge and general respiratory distress. As such they are very similar to the human flu in that they are of a primary concern in the young, old, immune impaired and performance animals. In both cases the viruses on their own make the horse unwell (influenza being the more virulent/ powerful) however it is the complicating factor of secondary infection that is the major risk. The virus destroys the respiratory tracts immune capabilities and so allows bacteria to invade easily. These can then go on to cause conditions like bronchitis and pneumonia which can be fatal. However if the virus is controlled by vaccination this risk is eliminated or greatly minimised.
Please click on the links below for more information about the disease that we can protect against.