Risk analysis for equine rhinopneumonitis in the Canary islands

Abstract

Equine herpesvirus 1 and 4 are the pathogens that cause Equine Viral Rhinopneumonia, which affects horses around the world causing great economic losses. They are responsible for the appearance of respiratory, neurological and abortifacient symptoms. The disease is transmitted by inhalation, usually through direct horse-to-horse contact. It is an enzootic disease that is distributed throughout the world. All situations that cause stress in animals are considered risk factors for the onset of the disease. While vaccination and good management and hygiene are considered the most important strategies in preventing and controlling. In this paper two surveys on Equine Viral Rhinopneumonia were designed to be answered by veterinarians specializing in equine clinic and equine farms in the Canary Islands. Six veterinarians and 16 holdings replied to these surveys. It is evident that the main risk factor that exists in the territory of the Canary Islands is the presence of outbreaks of the disease by the movement of horses between islands and with the outside. That is why it recommends the vaccination of these animals, even though the current legislation does not oblige it, since it is the best defence barrier to stop the occurrence of outbreaks and to control the populations of horses.