A highly contagious equine flu outbreak has killed at least 35 ponies in the New Forest, prompting an urgent warning to visitors and the cancellation of traditional autumn round-ups. The virus, which has not been seen in the wild pony population since the early 1990s, was first identified in ponies in the Woodgreen area but soon spread to other areas north of the A31, infecting a large number of both ponies and donkeys. Cases have since been confirmed in ponies in Ashurst, Brockenhurst, and Burley.
Traditional drifts cancelled
The traditional autumn ‘drifts’, in which ponies are rounded up for health checks, were due to begin in August but early drifts have been cancelled. Subsequent round-ups are under review, pending further updates about the virus. A statement from forest officials known as verderers said: 'Some affected ponies may have a heavy nasal discharge and a dry cough. Regrettably to date approximately 35 equines have died. 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.'
Spread and symptoms
Although mostly airborne, the virus can be spread by contact with affected animals. Advice given to horseriders and walkers is to give the ponies as wide a berth as possible and not allow ridden horses to drink from communal water troughs. Equine flu can cause life-threatening secondary bacterial infections such as bronchitis, muscle soreness, and pneumonia. Because the virus has not been seen in the wild pony population since the early 1990s, none of the current stock have immunity. The outbreak is believed to have been brought inadvertently into the area by a privately owned animal.
Public urged to avoid water buckets
In response to the outbreak, the verderers have also asked the public not to place water buckets on the Forest as this could spread the virus. Verderer Edward Heron said: 'We would remind Forest residents and visitors that, even in prolonged dry periods, there is sufficient access to water on the open Forest for stock, either from natural sources or installed water troughs.' As a result of the outbreak, stricter measures have been put in place by organisers of the New Forest Show, which takes place in Brockenhurst next week.
