A SHIPMENT of 10,000 vaccine doses to protect horses against the potentially fatal equine herpes virus (EHV) have been secured for Ireland, with the first portion arriving in Shannon Airport last Friday.

The order of the vaccine follows a recent outbreak of EHV at a high-profile show jumping event in Valencia, Spain.

There is concern that Irish horses competing on the continent could potentially bring the virus into this country. The virus can spread quickly and is hard to cure, but vaccination can provide significant protection.

The shipment of the urgently needed vaccine was organised from US suppliers by Coolmore Stud and the Fethard Equine Hospital with the support of the Department of Agriculture, who have moved rapidly to provide the AR 16 license required to import veterinary medicines in exceptional circumstances. There is no risk from virus transmission to humans.

The shipment comprised a combination of the Zoetis Equivac and Pneumabort-k vaccines. The vaccine will be made available at cost to both the thoroughbred and sport horse industries.

Commenting on news, the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue (pictured) said: “With this dangerous virus present in Europe we have moved quickly to support efforts to secure the necessary vaccine to protect our equine industry.

“The Department’s veterinary experts are monitoring the situation closely, and we are urging all owners to avail of these vaccines for their horses and furthermore to take extra precautions to minimise the risk of transmission.”

Shane O’Dwyer, CEO of the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders Association, said: “The outbreak of this potentially fatal virus is causing serious concern to thoroughbred breeders who fear it could spread into Ireland. It is fantastic news that the team at Coolmore and Fethard Equine Hospital have been able to source the vaccine in substantial quantities, and that the Department of Agriculture has moved with commendable swiftness to grant the necessary approvals.”

Joe Reynolds, acting CEO of Horse Sport Ireland, said: “Horse Sport Ireland moved quickly to establish protocols to ensure the safe return of horses from overseas to minimise any transmission risk.

“Having access to a vaccine is a very welcome development and we hope to see widespread use throughout our industry, but we must maintain vigilance and continue to follow all veterinary guidance.”

Some 17 horses on mainland Europe are reported to have died from the current outbreak.

HOW TO GET THE VACCINE AT COST PRICE FOR YOUR HORSES

EHV vaccinations can only be administered by registered veterinarians. The vaccinations will be available for supply to veterinary practices via Veterinary Instruments.

Email: sales@viltd.ie (put EHV in the subject line)