The Isle of Man has moved to underline its strict isolation and biosecurity controls for imported horses as equine influenza breaks out in the UK.
The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture confirmed there are no cases of equine influenza or equine herpesvirus on the island despite outbreaks in the UK.
DEFA said it is monitoring the situation in the UK “closely” and remains in regular contact with counterparts there.
The Department stressed that the island’s import controls already include strict, proportionate biosecurity measures, with all horses travelling from the UK required to hold a self‑certified import licence and to arrive in transport that has been cleansed and disinfected.
Isolate
Horses that are not fully vaccinated against equine influenza must complete a 14‑day isolation period on arrival.
During this time, they must not mix with other horses or attend events. DEFA said the controls reflect the risk of infectious diseases spreading rapidly and the need to limit transmission at the point of entry.
While vaccination does not completely prevent infection or onward spread, the Department said it remains a key tool in reducing severity and slowing transmission.
Horse owners are being urged to ensure vaccinations are up to date and to avoid unnecessary mixing where disease risk is known.
DEFA will continue sharing updates with the equestrian community and said further guidance will be issued if the risk profile changes. Owners are encouraged to seek veterinary advice if they have concerns.
On the reported case of EHV‑4 in Great Britain, DEFA described it as a recognised respiratory virus managed through good biosecurity, adding that vigilance, prompt veterinary advice and isolation of affected animals remain essential.
The Department said it will take further action if necessary to protect the island’s equine population.
Equine Flu
The equine infectious disease surveillance (EIDS) team at Cambridge Vet School confirmed 52 outbreaks of equine influenza in 32 counties, in England, Scotland and Wales, since April 1.
Only two cases were confirmed between January 1 and March 31 this year and between January 1 and May 10 last year, only one case was reported in the country.
