E-Book: Biosecurity at Equine Events (Downloadable) EN

Why is biosecurity important?
Biosecurity deserves heightened attention today, especially at equestrian events where horses and people from diverse locations come into contact. The rapid spread of infectious diseases among animals poses risks not only to the health of participants but also to the stability of the entire industry. Recent disease outbreaks, such as equine herpesvirus cases, have highlighted the severe consequences of inadequate biosecurity measures.

An increasing challenge
With the growing equine population, international transport, and the rising frequency of competitions and events, biosecurity is more relevant than ever. Factors such as stress, overcrowding, and hygiene deficiencies significantly increase the risk of infection. A well-thought-out biosecurity plan can prevent the introduction of diseases, ensuring the health of our horses and the safety of events.

Pathogens and Epidemics

Outbreaks at Equine Events
An outbreak occurs when infectious pathogens interact with risk factors under favorable conditions, enabling rapid spread among a susceptible equine population. Inadequate or insufficient biosecurity measures significantly increase the chances of infection spread.

Risk Factors for Infections:

• Susceptible horse populations: Horses lacking proper immunization (via vaccination or other means) or with weakened immune systems are more prone to infection.
• Presence of pathogens: Infected horses, people, animals, or contaminated objects can introduce pathogens to the event.
• Overcrowded environments: Large gatherings of horses increase direct contact and the rapid spread of infections.
• Poor hygiene practices: Lack of handwashing facilities and insufficient cleaning and disinfection elevate infection risks.
• Insects and vectors: Mosquitoes, ticks, and other vectors can spread specific diseases.
• Vehicles and equipment: Transport vehicles and tools can bring pathogens to the event venue.

Equine events are particularly vulnerable to outbreaks, as stressed horses at the venue face exposure to multiple viable pathogens.

Notable Example

In February 2021, a severe equine herpesvirus (EHV-1) outbreak occurred during an international equestrian event in Valencia, Spain. The outbreak devastated the European equestrian community, spreading rapidly across countries and severely affecting numerous horses. Many exhibited neurological symptoms, and some, unfortunately, did not survive.

The aftermath was severe: the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) suspended international equestrian events in Europe for months to prevent further spread. Over 700 horses at the Valencia Spring Tour event were quarantined, and emergency measures were enacted across multiple countries.

This event underscored the critical importance of biosecurity measures, including isolation, movement restrictions, and event planning, while highlighting how quickly an infection can spread and the far-reaching consequences for the equine industry.

If an equine health check reveals that horses are infected with a contagious disease or multiple horses fall ill simultaneously, organizers must follow the directives of the event’s official veterinarian. The second part of this guide provides detailed steps for such situations.

In November 2024, a significant outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) occurred in France, resulting in the death of several horses and cases reported across three different French regions. The outbreak has been linked to a national event held in Le Mans from November 1–3. (inside.fei.org).