London, UK – Mar 06 2019 – Zoetis Inc. today announced that, given the concerns caused by the recent flu outbreak, it is urging horse owners to participate in a survey about Equine Herpes Virus (EHV), which is another common and debilitating infectious equine respiratory disease. The aim is to identify best ways to improve understanding about EHV and to help reduce the risks it poses. The survey can be found here
Equine Herpes Virus is a contagious virus, which can cause respiratory disease, abortion and more rarely neurological disease. Equine Herpes Virus infections can be associated with poor performance and have a potential effect on the health of the whole yard.1
Once a horse is infected with Equine Herpes Virus it can harbour the virus throughout its life and potentially spread the disease to others. Infected horses often don’t show outward signs of Equine Herpes Virus infection but if they do, symptoms may include a high temperature, nasal discharge and a dry cough in younger horses. The horse may also show signs of depression and lack of energy. Reducing the spread of Equine Herpes Virus through management and vaccination is key to disease control.2
“EHV has potentially serious health, performance and financial implications across every sector of the equestrian industry,” said Wendy Talbot, National Equine Veterinary Manager at Zoetis. “The aim of our survey is to find out more about horse owners’ awareness and understanding of the risks EHV poses. The results should help us identify the most effective prevention strategies and then ensure that they are accessible.”
The survey runs from 4 – 15 March 2019 in parallel to a separate survey for vets. It is quick and easy to complete and you could win yourself a new body warmer. Click here to complete the survey.
For further information Please contact your Zoetis Account Manager or the Zoetis Technical Team on customersupportUK@zoetis.com or 0845 300 9084 choosing option 1.
References
1.Slater J (2014)Equine Herpesviruses. In: Equine Infectious Diseases. Eds., D.C. Sellon and M. Long, Saunders, St. Louis. P151-169
2.Lunn et al. (2009) EHV-1 consensus statement . J Vet Int Med. 23:450-461
About Zoetis
Zoetis is the leading animal health company, dedicated to supporting its customers and their businesses. Building on more than 60 years of experience in animal health, Zoetis discovers, develops, manufactures and markets veterinary vaccines and medicines, complemented by diagnostic products, genetic tests, biodevices and a range of services. Zoetis serves veterinarians, livestock producers and people who raise and care for farm and companion animals with sales of its products in more than 100 countries. In 2017, the company generated annual revenue of $5.3 billion with approximately 9,000 employees. For more information, visit www.zoetis.com.
