#17,579
Ten days ago, in Australia: Agriculture Victoria Investigating Sudden, Unexplained Horse Deaths, we first learned of the mysterious sudden deaths of horses on multiple farms in Victoria. Since then, we've seen a single update, where the number of horse fatalities had risen to 13.
At this point, it is still unclear whether these horses are dying from an infectious disease, an environmental toxin, or some other cause. Thus far, no movement restrictions on horses have been ordered.
Overnight Agriculture Victoria issued the following update, where we learn the number of suspicious horse deaths has increased to 17, but no cause has been determined.
Sudden horse death investigations
26 July 2023
Current Situation
To date, there have been sudden multiple horse deaths reported across 6 properties with a total of 17 horses that have died.
Following the announcement of an unusual level of sudden multiple deaths in horses, Agriculture Victoria has since received reports of a number of single deaths.
Only normal causes of death have been able to be identified in these and none appear to be infectious. The investigation continues into what could have been the possible causes of the multiple sudden horse deaths.
All affected horses have been reported to have died relatively quickly, within hours to one day from the first sign of illness. That is the only common factor to date.
Investigation
To date only normal causes of death found where adequate investigations and samples were possible. Examples include bacterial infection, and gut rupture. Toxic plants such as Marsh mallow (Malva parviflora) are also being investigated as a cause.
The investigation remains ongoing until all samples submitted to laboratories have been tested and final results are available.
Horse owners can be reassured however there is no need for any restrictions on horse movements and horse events and gatherings can go ahead as planned.
Agriculture Victoria will continue to attend properties, work with owners, and investigate all reports of multiple sudden horse deaths made to its hotline.
Agriculture Victoria is aware of the confirmed case of Hendra virus in New South Wales. Hendra virus has not been detected in Victoria as part of the current investigation, nor is there any known connection between these incidents.
It’s essential to remember that sudden death of individual horses is not uncommon, and there may not be a definitive answer or common link found. Multiple horse deaths within a short time frame though is unusual and veterinary advisers should be contacted as soon as possible.
Horse owners should monitor their animals, conduct good parasite management and weed control, and ensure good quality feed and water is provided.
No Movement Restrictions
As testing of samples for infectious disease to date has been negative, there’s no reason to restrict any movements of horses or separate horses. Horse events and movements can go ahead as planned.
If you have a sick horse, it would be wise to separate it from your other horses until your veterinarian has examined it.
Monitoring and Reporting
Horse owners should monitor their animals and report any multiple sudden deaths or rapid onset illness immediately to their local vet, Agriculture Victoria or via the emergency animal disease hotline on 1800 675 888.
Those who are concerned about sick horses should seek advice from their vet.
Property Identification Codes
Horse owners should register their horse with a Property Identification Code (PIC). It is an important communication and traceability tool used during animal health incidents.
A PIC enables Agriculture Victoria to contact horse owners if required. It’s free, quick and can be done here.
Misinformation
Please be mindful of what you share online, as posting misinformation can cause unnecessary alarm to horse owners.
