2007 Australian equine influenza outbreak

2007 Australian Equine Influenza Outbreak

The 2007 Australian Equine Influenza Outbreak was a significant event in the history of Australia's equine industry. It was the first and largest outbreak of equine influenza in Australia, affecting thousands of horses across the country.

Background

Equine influenza is a highly contagious viral disease that affects horses, donkeys, and other equine species. It is caused by strains of the Influenza A virus that are specific to equines. The disease is characterized by high fever, coughing, and nasal discharge.

Outbreak

The outbreak began in August 2007, when the first cases of equine influenza were reported in Sydney, New South Wales. The virus quickly spread to other parts of the country, including Queensland and Victoria. The rapid spread of the virus was facilitated by the movement of infected horses for racing and breeding purposes.

Impact

The 2007 Australian Equine Influenza Outbreak had a significant impact on the country's equine industry. Thousands of horses were infected, and many events, including the Melbourne Cup, were cancelled or postponed. The outbreak also had a significant economic impact, with the cost of the outbreak estimated to be in the hundreds of millions of dollars.

Response

The Australian government responded to the outbreak by implementing strict quarantine measures and launching a nationwide vaccination program. The outbreak was officially declared over in June 2008, but the impact on the equine industry was felt for many years afterwards.

See also

• Equine influenza
• Influenza A virus
• 2007 United Kingdom foot-and-mouth outbreak