A stallion that tested positive for Equine Viral Arteritis (EVA) - a viral disease affecting equine animals - has been returned to its country of origin and restrictions on the quarantine premises where it was being kept have now been lifted.

The horse, which had been imported into the UK, had already been in quarantine in the Newmarket area of Suffolk in anticipation of onward exportation when the positive tests confirmed EVA.

A subsequent investigation revealed the stallion had come into contact with three mares still in the UK. These were tested for EVA and all the results were negative.

The stallion had not been used for breeding purposes whilst in the UK. All other in-contact horses have been exported, and the authorities in the importing countries informed.

EVA can be transmitted via the respiratory route in the acute phase of infection but spread is usually venereal through the semen of stallions, by the use of teaser mares, or through contact with aborted foetuses and other products at foaling. Clinical signs vary, depending on the strain of the virus and the degree of exposure. EVA can cause abortions. Other signs include fever, depression, lethargy, stiff movement, runny nose, conjunctivitis, swelling of the lower parts of the legs, around the eye and of the reproductive organs. It is a compulsorily notifiable disease in the UK.

 

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