Guide to equine exotic vectorborne diseases and their risks to UK horses

Abstract

Background: Infectious diseases remain a constant threat to human and animal populations, with the potential for far‐reaching and diverse impacts on health, welfare, trade, livelihoods and the economy. Over recent years, many infectious diseases have increased in incidence and geographical range and this is the result of a multitude of factors, of which population expansion, globalisation and climate change are notable. With increased international connectivity, emergence and re‐emergence of exotic diseases have arisen on multiple occasions in the UK.Aim of the article: This article reviews the epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, control and prevention of the key equine vectorborne diseases. It also outlines the surveillance initiatives in place for detection of these diseases, and the current risk status they pose to the UK equine population.