Infectious Diseases

Many infectious diseases pose a danger for horses and the equestrian industry both in our country and throughout the world. Such diseases could reduce the performance of horses and may even prevent horses from attending races and competitions until they recover. Some infectious diseases could result in death.

For this reason, in the fight against infections, the aim should be to prevent these conditions instead of treating them after they affect their victims. In line with this aim, it is recommended that the horses' care and environmental conditions are kept at a high standard and the vaccinations are administered on a regular basis. Thanks to long-lasting scientific studies and effective politics, some infectious diseases have been eradicated completely and they are no longer encountered in some countries. For example; England and Ireland eradicated Rabies many years ago.

In respiratory system infections, the cause of the disease may spread around by nasal discharge.

Some institutions such as the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI), the Turkish Equestrian Federation and Turkish Jockey Club make some vaccinations mandatory for race and competition horses on the basis of particular regional conditions. For example; the German Equestrian Federation (FN) has made only the Equine Flu (Equine Influenza) vaccination mandatory whereas horses registered with the Turkish Equestrian Federation must also be vaccinated against not only Equine Flu but also the Herpesvirus infections (EHV 1-4).

 Click here for the current list of vaccinations that are mandatory in Turkey.

The first symptoms that could be noticed in some infectious diseases may include nasal discharge, coughing, itching on the skin and hair loss. Therefore, informing the veterinary surgeon as soon as these symptoms are spotted decreases the risk of transmission to other horses and prevents the condition from becoming an epidemic. In such cases, allotting some boxes as quarantined stables could be greatly beneficial in keeping the condition under control and treating the horses. Furthermore, even though they are limited in number, some diseases may also be transmitted to humans (zoonosis). You may consult your veterinary surgeon for further information on this subject

Mange lesions on the head.
In order to avoid contamination, it is recommended to ensure that each horse has its own grooming equipment and that a general clinical examination is conducted on any new horse arriving at the facility.