Equine influenza: literature review

Abstract

Equine influenzavirus (EIV) is considered one of the major infectious agents causing respiratory outbreaks in horses in Brazil and worldwide. EIV is classified into two subtypes, H3N8 is widespread in horse population and subtype H7N7, despite being possibly detected by serological methods, is considered extinct or circulating at low levels of prevalence. The disease presents short incubation period, about 48 hours, and recovery of up to three weeks. Equine influenza is mainly characterized by high morbidity and low mortality and clinical signs vary from mild to severe, depending on the immune status of the animal, which may occur due to worsening of secondary bacterial infections. Diagnosis is based on clinical and epidemiological characteristics of the disease. It is important for the differential diagnosis mainly Rodococcus equi and Streptococcus equi. Basic therapy is supportive, including the isolation of symptomatic animals. Prophylactic measures are used as methods of health management associated with vaccination.