Notifiable equine diseases in Great Britain: recognition and management

Recent cases of notifiable equine disease in Great Britain, alongside the increasing global and national incidence of exotic and emerging infections in other species, highlight the significant potential threats to equine health. In Great Britain, all notifiable diseases require mandatory reporting to the Animal and Plant Health Agency and veterinary surgeons play a crucial role in controlling them by ensuring early detection and prompt reporting of suspected cases. Therefore, continuous education on notifiable disease epidemiology, diagnostic testing methods and risk assessment is vital. Notifiable diseases in animals can impact international trade, the economy, public health and animal welfare. When an outbreak is detected, Government, in partnership with industry and other government departments will take action to control the spread of disease and regain freedom from disease. Staying informed through resources, such as those provided by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance and the government's international disease monitoring unit, is crucial for maintaining equine health and avoiding disease incursions.