AN outbreak of Equine Viral Arteritis (EVA), a serious viral disease in horses, has been confirmed in Dorset.

The UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer confirmed today (April 5) that two cases of EVA in non-thoroughbred stallions have been discovered on a premises in the county.

Although deaths from EVA are very rare in healthy adults, pregnant mares that become infected may abort, and very young foals may die from a form of pneumonia as a result of it.

Humans can spread the disease mechanically but the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has said there is no risk to public health, as the virus is not harmful to humans.

Restrictions on breeding have been put in place on the animals to limit the risk of the disease spreading and further investigations are ongoing.

Upcoming horse racing events should not be affected as the infected animals are not racehorses.

Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss said: "We have taken swift action to limit the risk of the disease spreading by restricting the movement of the animals and their semen.

"A full investigation is underway to determine the source and possible spread of the infection. Owners of mares and stallions are urged to have their animals tested before they are used for breeding.

"These findings remind us that we must all be vigilant for signs of disease and follow strict biosecurity measures."

Signs of EVA can include:

Abortions

Depression

Conjunctivitis

Swelling of testicles or udder, also around eyes and lower legs

Fever and runny nose

Lethargy and stiff movement

Some infected horses will show no clinical signs.

You can help prevent the disease spreading by:

Vaccinating stallions against the disease - talk to your vet for advice

Practising good biosecurity on your premises

Owners of mares and stallions are urged to have their animals tested before they are used for breeding.

If you suspect Equine Viral Arteritis please get in touch with the Animal and Plant Health Agency at enquiries@apha.gov.uk.

To have your horse tested on a precautionary basis contact your private vet and have your animal tested at an accredited laboratory.

EVA is not the same as equine influenza, the horse-based flu virus that halted horse racing events across the country earlier this year.