It has been reported that Thailand has begun vaccinating approximately 4000 horses in a bid to stem the spread of the deadly African Horse Sickness.
AHS is a disease that online affects horses and horse equines, and there have been no reported cases in humans.
Since the outbreak in Thailand – the first time the illness has appeared in Southeast Asia – over 200 horses in seven provinces have died. AHS is transmitted by midges, leading horses owners to installing insect nets around stables and keeping horses inside.
Depsite the vaccination program, it has been reported by Science magazine that the vaccine is far from perfect. It’s a live, weakened version of the virus that can sometimes produce mild symptoms and can spread to other horses – although these are nowhere near the deadly symptoms produced by the virus itself. That being said, it’s still better than no vaccination and in the past it has stemmed outbreaks.
The government has also since banned the import and export of horses, zebras and related animals. One theory is the disease made it’s way to Thailand via Zebras imported from Africa.
With a very high death rate, vets are concerned that if left unchecked the disease could wipe out a large percentage of Thailand’s equine population and spread to neighbouring countries.
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