Australia's Horse flu Virus shots 'may spread virus more'
Pastor Dale Morgan
Australia's Horse flu Virus shots 'may spread virus more'*
By Mark Schliebs
October 12, 2007 02:39pm
Article from: NEWS.com.au
VACCINATING horses against equine influenza may inadvertently help to
spread the disease even more, according to Australia's top veterinarian.
Australia’s chief veterinary officer Bob Biddle said vaccinated horses
could carry and pass on the virus without appearing sick.
“(A vaccinated horse) is still capable of being infected, but it will
appear healthy,” Dr Biddle said.
“Therefore, if it does become infected with the virus and come into
contact with unvaccinated horses or horses that have no immunity, then
they have a risk of getting the disease.
“It is… a beneficial approach, but it’s not without risk.”
Dr Biddle said horse owners may not even realise their horses were sick
before allowing them to mix with others.
“The changes may be very subtle and be easily missed,” he said.
Thoroughbred Breeders Australia president John Messara said vaccinations
were the best way to stamp out the virus.
“It’s not a perfect solution, but it certainly protects the industry,”
Mr Messara said.
Dr Biddle said the vaccinations were being used to contain the disease,
not to “safeguard” every horse.
“(Vaccination) is an important tool for protecting populations of horses
and the way that we are currently using it in Australia… is to help
contain the disease.”