What is this dangerous disease circulating in several departments?

A health alert is currently affecting the equestrian world in France. Rhinopneumonia is an extremely contagious and sometimes fatal viral disease for horses, which is spreading in several departments. This epidemic is causing particular concern because of its speed of spread and its potential to have a lasting impact on the equestrian industry, both economically and health-wise. We'll explain it to you.

This disease is caused by the equine herpes viruses HVE1 and HVE4, and while it poses no risk to humans, its effects on horses can be devastating. It manifests itself in different forms. The respiratory form, the most common, causes fever, loss of appetite and breathing difficulties. Rarer, the neurological form is more serious, causing balance disorders, paralysis and can lead to death.

An equestrian gathering in Sarthe at the origin of contamination

According to the Equine Pathology Epidemiological Surveillance Network (RESPE), several departments are currently placed at moderate or high risk. In Oise, around ten cases have been reported, while in Hauts-de-Seine, the situation is even more worrying, with a high risk and two horses dying last week. In total, 9 departments are classified as moderate risk, while 5 others, mainly in the west and center of the country, are at high risk.

These cases would be linked to an equestrian gathering organized at the beginning of November in Sarthe: hundreds of ponies and horses from all over France could then have been contaminated, explains RESPE in a press release. These gatherings, despite their importance for the equestrian community, can quickly become centers of epidemics when strict health measures are not respected.

A threat to the equestrian industry

Rhinopneumonia, beyond its impact on the health of horses, threatens the entire equestrian industry. With more than 670,000 horses recorded in France and tens of thousands of riders, the sector represents a significant economic weight, particularly through competitions, breeding and equestrian tourism.

Cancellations of events, like those already observed at Le Mans, risk causing significant financial losses for organizers, clubs and professionals in the sector.

Increased vigilance and strict measures

Faced with this epidemic, the authorities are calling for caution. Horse movements should be limited as much as possible. If infection is suspected, it is strongly recommended that horses be isolated and their movements within structures suspended for at least three weeks.

Veterinarians play a central role in this fight, not only to establish rapid diagnoses, but also to advise owners on the protocols to adopt. This includes the establishment of differentiated care circuits to avoid contaminating other animals and rigorous observation of horses in contact with suspected cases.

Read our file on animal protection

Vaccination: effective but not obligatory

Vaccination, although not compulsory, remains an important means of prevention, even if it does not guarantee total protection. It is particularly recommended for horses who participate in competitions or who live in groups. However, its effectiveness also depends on compliance with other health measures, in particular isolation and disinfection of facilities.

RESPE emphasizes the importance of reporting suspected cases. This approach is essential to contain the epidemic and avoid uncontrolled spread: “It is in everyone's interest to limit the consequences for the sector. »