Australia Moves Beyond Equine Influenza Epidemic

An outbreak of the highly contagious viral disease "Equine Influenza" halted Australian last year in many areas. (AI Wire Image)

For the first time since the outbreak of equine flu, costing the Australian Horse racing industry millions of dollars; horses have crossed the border of Australia's largest state. An outbreak of the highly contagious viral disease "Equine Influenza" halted Australian last year in many areas.  However, the primary industry Minister Ian Macdonald says a batch of 229 horses have been taken on Tuesday from Sydney to Melbourne, a huge step since the devastating blow to horse racing in Australia.

"This is great news for the thoroughbred sector, but also a huge step along the path to getting things back to normal for the entire horse industry," Macdonald acknowledged.

No infections have been reported since December 21st; almost 90% is now considered disease free.  However, every horse is still subject to testing to ensure it is not diseased.  They are testing for immunity towards viral infections. Even though the equine influenza is not usually fatal, it does cause animals to be extremely sick, sometimes even causing a horse it's racing career.

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