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In 2019 there were over 100 times more recorded outbreaks of equine flu across the UK than in 20181. This time last year horses were affected across the country and numerous equestrian events were cancelled as a result. Despite this, as of 2019, still approximately only 50% of UK horses are vaccinated2. To remind owners of the importance of good preventative healthcare, MSD Animal Health has launched its campaign, inviting horse owners to join the movement to Keep Britains Horses Healthy and fight equine flu, #fightequineflu.
Blaise Scott-Morris MRCVS, Equine Marketing and Technical Manager at MSD Animal Health comments: “Last year’s outbreaks of equine flu rocked the equine world, raising important animal welfare issues and costing the racing industry millions. Furthermore, they highlighted the need for good preventative healthcare and, in particular, vaccination. It’s vital that more owners are encouraged to vaccinate and those that already have, to keep up with their annual vaccinations and healthchecks so we don’t experience the same suffering again.”
There are a range of resources available to support vet practices in promoting the campaign; aiming to encourage horse-owners to speak to their vets about vaccination and preventative healthcare. Practice packs include an educational infographic poster, a social media pack and new resources on Chameleon. This will be supported by an educational campaign direct to horse owners, both on social media, on Facebook @Keeping Britains Horses Healthy, and on Instagram @KeepingHorsesHealthy. There will also be a new look website page www.kbhh.co.uk/achoo and partnerships with consumer channels such as Horse and Country TV. This site will give horse owners links to a whole range of other educational preventative health materials and advice for excellent horse care.
To request your Fight Equine Flu practice pack, speak to your MSD account manager.