This 2nd International Symposium on Neglected Influenza Viruses will take place in Dublin, Ireland, on March 7-8, 2013. This conference will explore the latest surveillance data, vaccination and control strategies, diagnostic techniques, experimental research data and epidemiological and economic impact studies relating to equine, swine, canine and other nonhuman/nonavian influenza viruses.
Influenza symptom - Coughing horse
Equine influenza, caused by the orthomyxovirus equine influenza A type 2, is one of the most common infectious diseases of the respiratory tract of horses.
The main aim of the symposium is to promote a trans-disciplinary, coordinated approach to the control of influenza by integrating the scientific inputs from public health, veterinary and environmental health efforts along with basic science.
Sessions will address
- Surveillance and disease investigation
- Virus transmission and control
- Clinical and experimental virology
- Emerging issues and new developments
Although the number of cases of equine influenza varys from year to year, the disease, along with complications, take a toll on horse health and result in down time for horse that can affect competitions and work schedules.
Equine influenza, caused by the orthomyxovirus equine influenza A type 2 (A/equine 2), is one of the most common infectious diseases of the respiratory tract of horses. It is endemic in the equine population of the United States and throughout much of the world, with the notable exceptions of New Zealand and Iceland.
Equine influenza virus does not constantly circulate, even in large groups of horses, but is sporadically introduced by an infected horse. For this reason it is important to quarantine any new horses being introduced for at least 14 days.
According to the AAEP, the most important factors associated with increased risk of inflenza infection have been identified as:
- Age: Horses 1 to 5 years old are more susceptible. Older horses are generally less susceptible to infection, but immunity can be overwhelmed in horses frequently exposed at shows or similar athletic events.
- Serum concentrations of influenza virus-specific antibody: The importance of local mucosal protection is difficult to quantitate by methods currently available.
- Frequent contact with large numbers of horses.
Read more about Equine Influenza