Equine Influenza Vaccine Update
There has been a shortage of ProteqFlu and ProteqFlu Te vaccinations. The TBA were informed that the supply issues will last through October, but it may be longer. The TBA understands that supplies of other brands of Equine Influenza vaccines (Equip or Equilis Prequenza) are unchanged, but that there will be insufficient extra doses to make up the Proteq shortfall. Unfortunately, this means that some Veterinary Surgeons, who normally use Proteq vaccines, may not be able to access supplies of alternative Flu vaccinations to make up their deficit and therefore doses will need to be prioritised in certain circumstances.
Continuation of Racing has been the priority of the BHA and their Veterinary Committee has discussed the situation. Some temporary relaxation of the new requirement for six month booster intervals, up to but not beyond 12 months, is likely to be allowed and the BHA communication of 27 August 2022 can be viewed here on the BHA's website.
Specific guidance for breeders has been considered by the TBA Veterinary Committee and it is hoped that the following points will be helpful:
1. Foals are most vulnerable to Equine Flu infection and should therefore be prioritised for vaccination at the most appropriate time in their development. They should start their primary Flu vaccinations soon after six months of age. Breeders who delay starting vaccinations until yearling age take a risk and if they decide to do so, they should consider earlier tetanus vaccination.
2. Mares’ six monthly Equine Flu boosters can be temporarily postponed for up to a maximum of 12 months (i.e. an annual booster). Breeders may wish to prioritise the timing of a booster within the last six weeks of pregnancy, in order to maximise colostral transfer of immunity to the newborn foal (delivered via antibodies in the colostrum), which protects them for up to six months of age. A delay of Equine Flu boosters from six to 12 months should not mean that mares need to re-start a primary course again (as long as they have not exceeded 12 months since the last vaccination).
3. Tetanus vaccine boosters can safely be postponed to over a year and horses will remain protected.
4. Equine Flu vaccine brands can be mixed safely, but it is always recommended to stick to one brand if possible.
5. Should an important vaccination have to be missed due to supply problems, this fact should be recorded in the passport by the Veterinary Surgeon, including a date and signature, at the time that the missed vaccination is due.
6. Please note the updated intervals (in the table below) for administering the primary course of Equine Flu vaccinations that were implemented by the BHA for all thoroughbreds starting new courses from 1 January 2022. If thoroughbreds (particularly yearlings) commenced Equine Influenza vaccinations in 2021, but the primary course was timed according to the new BHA intervals due to be implemented from 1 January 2022, then owners are advised to contact the BHA and/or the appropriate sales house for guidance on whether any action is required.