Concerns are mounting in the New Forest National Park over an outbreak of equine flu that poses a significant threat to the region’s famous free-roaming ponies.
This marks the first occurrence of the rare horse flu in the Hampshire park in 30 years, with a rising number of cases now confirmed.
Reports indicate that up to 10 ponies have died within the national park due to the highly contagious viral respiratory disease.
Measures are being swiftly put in place to safeguard the beloved animals, particularly in anticipation of the upcoming New Forest and Hampshire County Show.
The Verderers of the New Forest, the ancient governing body tasked with protecting traditional agricultural rights, have issued official advice to the local community.
They say veterinary experts recommend leaving affected ponies undisturbed to avoid causing them undue stress and inadvertently spreading the virus further.
Members of the public in the Brockenhurst and Burley areas should expect to see ponies displaying symptoms such as a heavy nasal discharge and a dry cough.
“The Verderers are following veterinary advice, which is to leave the affected ponies where they are to avoid causing them unnecessary distress and potentially spreading the virus further,” they said.
“Although mostly airborne, the virus can spread by contact with an affected animal.
“The advice to horse riders and walkers is to give the ponies as wide a berth as is possible and not to allow ridden horses to drink from communal water troughs.”
More than 85,000 spectators, 2,000 horses and 500 exhibitors are expected to attend the New Forest and Hampshire County Show in Brockenhurst from 28-30 July.
To prevent further spread of the virus, organisers have said that all horses, ponies, and donkeys attending the show must be vaccinated against equine flu.
The primary course includes three doses: an initial vaccination, a second dose 21–60 days later, and a third between 120 and 180 days after the second.
Following completion of the primary course, equines must receive booster vaccinations in accordance with current veterinary guidance.
Animals attending the show must have received a vaccination within the six months prior to the show.
No equine may attend or compete within seven days of receiving any Equine Influenza vaccination.
The spokesperson added: “Please note that additional checks will be carried out upon arrival at the showground.
“These will include verification of passports, submission of a signed health declaration form which will need to be completed prior to arrival, and inspection of equines entering the show.”
