Biosecurity at Equestrian Events: Are We Doing Enough?

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Biosecurity at Equestrian Events: Are We Doing Enough?

The importance of biosecurity in equestrian sports has never been more critical. With horses frequently traveling and interacting at competitions, the risk of infectious disease outbreaks is a constant concern. Despite increased awareness, many equestrian events still lack comprehensive biosecurity measures, creating vulnerabilities that can have serious consequences for horse welfare and the industry as a whole.

Recent updates to the FEI’s biosecurity policies mark progress toward safer competitions, but consistent implementation remains a challenge. Effective biosecurity requires vigilant health monitoring, early detection, and efficient tracking of horse movements. Event organizers and horse owners both play crucial roles in addressing these challenges and supporting outbreak prevention.

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Impact of Outbreaks on the Equestrian Industry

International competitions are adopting stricter protocols, yet many events still fall short of best practices. Inconsistent health checks, limited quarantine procedures, and inadequate monitoring of horse movements create conditions for rapid disease spread. Historical outbreaks highlight the need for improvement. For example, the 2007 equine influenza outbreak in Australia affected over 76,000 horses, leading to economic losses exceeding $1 billion AUD. The 2021 outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) at a show jumping event in Valencia, Spain, spread to at least 10 countries, causing fatalities and event cancellations. In the United States, a 2018 outbreak of strangles disrupted facilities nationwide. These incidents underscore the necessity of enhanced tracking, early detection, and effective containment.

Research from institutions like the University of Kentucky’s Gluck Equine Research Center emphasizes the importance of vaccination, isolation, and continuous monitoring. Studies show that early isolation of symptomatic horses significantly reduces transmission rates, reinforcing the need for rapid detection and intervention. To assist event organizers in implementing a strong isolation plan, Katie Flynn from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) created an insightful video titled 'Development of an Isolation Plan,' where she shares how to follow industry protocol.

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Quarantine and Transport Regulations for Equine Health and Safety

Some countries like Norway enforce a specific ratio of quarantine stables to regular stables at equestrian facilities, as a means for disease prevention. Other countries implement different quarantine protocols tailored to their unique epidemiological concerns and regulatory frameworks.

All horses entering the U.S., except those from Canada, must undergo import quarantine. The duration varies from 3, 7, or 60 days, depending on factors like the animal health status of the country of origin and transit, as well as the purpose of entry (e.g., competition, breeding). For instance, horses from regions affected by African Horse Sickness require a 60-day quarantine upon arrival. Similarly, EU regulations focus on preventing the introduction of diseases such as African Horse Sickness and Venezuelan Equine Encephalomyelitis. Member states must ensure that horses from affected areas undergo specific measures, including quarantine for at least 40 days, testing, and protection from disease-carrying insects during this period.

Many countries require a pre-export quarantine (PEQ) period before horses are transported internationally. The duration varies by destination; for example, China mandates a 31-day PEQ, while Canada requires 7 days. During PEQ, horses are isolated under veterinary supervision to monitor for diseases and ensure compliance with the importing country's health requirements. In the US, interstate travel with horses is common, and although it can be done freely, it requires adherence to specific health and documentation regulations that may vary by state. Proper preparation and consultation with relevant authorities are essential for a smooth and compliant journey. In Europe, horses can move freely between countries like Germany, France, and the Netherlands. However, compliance with EU regulations regarding identification, health certification, vaccinations, and transport conditions is essential to facilitate smooth and safe travel.

Iceland is unique in its comprehensive ban on importing horses and the non-return policy for exported horses, including horses exported for competitions. This policy is in place to preserve the health of its native equine population. To further safeguard against disease transmission, importing used riding equipment, such as saddles and bridles, is strictly prohibited, and visitors to the country are advised to adopt strict biosecurity measures.

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Best Practices for Event Organizers and The Role of Horse Owners in Biosecurity

Event organizers play a pivotal role in maintaining biosecurity. Essential practices include health checks upon arrival, up-to-date vaccination records, and designated quarantine areas for new arrivals. Communicating protocols clearly and training staff to recognize symptoms strengthens safety measures. Facilities should minimize contact between horses from different regions through spaced stalls, controlled access to shared areas, and regular disinfection of surfaces. Establishing isolation protocols and immediate veterinary evaluation of suspected cases are crucial for containment.

But it’s not all down to the events–horse owners are also vital partners in disease prevention. Responsibilities include maintaining accurate health records, ensuring timely vaccinations, and monitoring for signs of illness. Before traveling to events, owners should conduct pre-travel health checks and avoid transporting symptomatic horses. For advice on how to check a horse's temperature, pulse, and respiration, visit our blog, The Basics of Monitoring Health. While international regulations mandate pre-travel health checks, applying these best practices to national travel enhances biosecurity.

Disinfection of equipment and trailers post-show reduces the risk of introducing pathogens to home facilities. According to best practices, horses should also ideally be quarantined for two weeks and monitored for infection, and keeping working- or competing horses separate from breeding stock is crucial for damage limitation in case disease was to spread. That said, continuous quarantine of horses in work may not be feasible due to their competition schedule or restrictions at barns where quarantine isn't possible. Restrictions like these increase the necessity for continuous health monitoring to help detect early signs of illness, supporting horse welfare and preventing disease spread.

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The Future of Biosecurity

Biosecurity in equestrian sports is evolving through technology and global collaboration. Innovations in biotechnology and data analytics are enabling more effective vaccines, faster diagnostics, and advanced health monitoring systems. AI-driven platforms analyze large datasets to identify patterns and predict outbreaks, allowing proactive interventions that minimize disruption.

Global collaboration is essential to building a resilient biosecurity network. Sharing data, research findings, and best practices enables stakeholders to develop comprehensive guidelines and protocols. Regulatory bodies like the FEI play a key role in ensuring that biosecurity standards keep pace with scientific advancements, equipping participants with the tools needed to prevent and contain disease outbreaks. Future innovations, such as wearable sensors, automated health monitoring, and digital health passports, will provide real-time insights into horses’ well-being, enabling immediate action when abnormalities are detected.

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Leveraging Technology for Detection, Tracking, and Containment

Scientific research underscores the importance of early detection. A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that identifying fever and respiratory distress early significantly improves outcomes for horses with infectious diseases. By monitoring these indicators in real-time, systems like Steed EMS enable rapid intervention, reducing transmission risks.

Steed uses non-invasive sensors to track key health indicators and mobility. Its integration with microchipping technology allows for better contact tracing during outbreaks, which is essential for large events where horses from various regions interact. Continuous advancements, including AI platforms will in the future be capable of predicting outbreaks by analyzing health data patterns, are improving biosecurity globally. These platforms provide insights that help organizers and veterinarians stay ahead of emerging threats.

The development of real-time health dashboards and predictive analytics tools offers additional layers of protection. These systems can alert event organizers and horse owners to potential health risks, allowing for immediate preventive measures. Furthermore, integrating AI into veterinary diagnostics enhances the accuracy and speed of detecting infectious diseases, supporting more effective containment.

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Supporting Global Biosecurity Efforts

Global biosecurity efforts rely on real-time information sharing. The US Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) offers a live outbreak tracker that informs horse owners, veterinarians, and event organizers of active cases nationwide. Expanding similar systems internationally would strengthen global biosecurity by improving communication and coordination, enabling faster responses to emerging threats.

Collaborations between veterinary authorities, government agencies, and event organizers enhance biosecurity through education and awareness. Sharing best practices and outbreak data builds resilient equestrian communities. Initiatives like global biosecurity conferences and cross-border disease monitoring networks foster a unified approach to equine health.

Partnerships between universities, private companies, and government agencies drive innovation in equine health. Collaborative research projects aim to develop more effective vaccines, diagnostic tools, and monitoring systems. Sharing findings through scientific publications and industry events ensures that veterinarians, trainers, and horse owners worldwide can access the latest knowledge.

Equestrian organizations can support biosecurity by establishing international guidelines for health monitoring, travel protocols, and quarantine measures. These guidelines should be regularly updated to reflect new scientific evidence. Standardized health certificates, vaccination records, and digital passports streamline processes, reducing administrative burdens while ensuring compliance with health regulations. Real-time verification of health records prevents the entry of horses with incomplete documentation, minimizing disease introduction.

Increased collaboration between countries is crucial for addressing transboundary diseases. By aligning regulations and sharing outbreak data, nations can create a coordinated response system that minimizes delays in containment efforts. Enhanced partnerships with international veterinary organizations also support the development of global biosecurity frameworks that address emerging challenges.

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Conclusion

Strengthening biosecurity is crucial for equestrian sports’ long-term sustainability. By leveraging technology, fostering global collaboration, and promoting transparent communication, the industry can reduce disease risks and create safer environments for horses and participants. Future innovations like wearable sensors and digital health passports will enhance monitoring, enabling swift action when health abnormalities are detected. Through research, innovation, and shared responsibility, the equestrian community can safeguard horse welfare and support the continued success of the sport.

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Sources:

Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI)

Biosecurity Guidelines and Key Event Requirements

FEI Protocols for Prevention of EHV

United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) - Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

Horse Import and Quarantine Regulations

European Union Regulations

EU Equine Transport and Disease Prevention Rules

Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority (MAST)

Iceland Horse Import and Export Rules

US Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC)

Real-Time Outbreak Tracker

New South Wales Department of Primary Industries

2007 Equine Influenza Outbreak in Australia

World of Showjumping

2021 EHV-1 Outbreak in Valencia, Spain

University of Kentucky Gluck Equine Research Center

Research on Vaccination, Isolation, and Disease Prevention in Horses: Gluck Equine Research

Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine

Study on Early Detection of Fever and Respiratory Distress in Horses (Improved Outcomes in Infectious Diseases). Access via: Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine

FEI HorseApp

Equine Traceability and Health Monitoring

Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)

Pre-Export Quarantine Requirements for Horses

Chinese Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs

31-Day Pre-Export Quarantine for Horse Imports

Equine Transport Regulations in the United States

Interstate Health Certificates and Coggins Test Requirements

Equine Transport Regulations in Europe

Cross-Border Movement Guidelines for Horses

World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH/OIE)

Cross-Border Disease Monitoring and Biosecurity Networks