Frequently Asked Questions - Equine Influenza
Background
An outbreak of equine influenza (EI) occurred in Australia in August 2007. EI is an exotic disease to Australia (it has never been present here before).
A national response involving the Australian Government, state and territory governments, and a number of horse organisations has occurred, and together these groups have been able to eradicate equine influenza from the Australian horse population.
Eradication
On 30 June 2008 Australia was able to declare official freedom from the disease because no new cases had been found since December 25 last year. Also, six months of thorough testing and surveillance has shown that no EI infection is present in Australia's horse population.
Australia is one of the few countries that has been successful in eradicating this disease.
To satisfy World Animal Health Organisation (OIE) requirements, Australia will have to maintain increased surveillance for equine influenza until the end of 2008, after which normal surveillance will apply.
It is still essential for horse and donkey owners to remain vigilant to any disease symptoms. Report any suspect animals to your local vet or the DPI on 1800 675 888.
And remember, good biosecurity practices do not stop here! Comprehensive information about biosecurity and horses is available on the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries & Foresty website.
The Equine Influenza Inquiry
On 25 September 2007, the Hon Mr Ian Callinan AC was appointed Commissioner by the then Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry under section 66AY of the Quarantine Act 1908 to conduct an independent inquiry into the outbreak of equine influenza in Australia.
The report was released on 12 June and can be found on the Equine Influenza Inquiry website.
About Equine Influenza
Information about the disease is available on the DAFF website.