The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) is advising horse owners and veterinarians that Equine Herpesvirus type 4 (EHV-4) has been confirmed as active in the Gippsland region of Victoria.
Agriculture Victoria has confirmed cases of EHV-4 in horses on several Gippsland properties presenting with fever, respiratory signs and mouth ulcers. Initial laboratory testing has ruled out exotic diseases of concern.
Equine Veterinarians Australia (EVA) President Dr Albert Sole Guitart advises EHV-4 is a widespread virus that primarily causes respiratory disease in horses, particularly in younger animals. Clinical disease is usually mild, and most horses recover fully with rest and supportive care under veterinary supervision.
"Horses might show signs such as fever, a snotty nose, cough or lethargy," Dr Sole Guitart said. "The safest approach is for owners to keep these horses at home, away from other horses, and to call your vet immediately for advice."
"The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) and EVA will maintain close communication with Agriculture Victoria and continue to provide timely updates to keep our members well informed as the situation evolves."
The virus is spread mainly by close contact between horses via respiratory secretions, and can also be transmitted through contaminated equipment, clothing, hands and shared water or feed containers. Separating sick horses from healthy horses and maintaining good hygiene and biosecurity are therefore critical to limiting onward transmission.
"The best sampling method for detecting Equine Herpesvirus‑4 (EHV‑4) is by taking a deep nasopharyngeal swab, which must be performed by a veterinarian," Dr Sole Guitart said. "This swab is then sent to a specialist diagnostic laboratory where the virus can be detected if EHV-4 is present."
Veterinarians will be playing a critical role in managing this outbreak, as the front-line workers in maintaining Australia's high standard of biocontainment and biosecurity.
"It is very important to follow your vet's recommendations and to avoid working or transporting horses that are unwell or still recovering," Dr Sole Guitart said.
This situation is a timely reminder for all horse owners to review and strengthen their property biosecurity plans. Simple measures, applied consistently, can significantly reduce the risk of infectious diseases spreading within and between horse properties.
If you suspect an emergency animal disease, contact your vet or call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888
