Equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM) outbreaks have put “biosecurity” in the social media, journal publication, and veterinary study spotlight. Infectious disease control lectures are now routinely seen in programs for veterinarians, racetrack superintendents, horse show managers, and horse owners of all experience levels. However, equine herpesvirus (EHV) is just one disease of concern; strangles, salmonellosis, influenza, and others still occur and must be considered in any biosecurity plan.

Biosecurity is a relatively new term in veterinary medicine. In general, it means taking steps to protect animals against infectious diseases and reduce disease outbreak spread. The phrase “animal hygiene”—practices that promote health and prevent disease with an emphasis on cleanliness—was commonly used more than 25 years ago, and is still used in many countries.

Thoroughly scrubbing surfaces with water and detergent can remove 90% of bacteria from non-porous surfaces. Detergents also disrupt the lipid envelope of many equine viral pathogens. Some disease-causing organisms, such as Leptospira, are extremely sensitive to drying and don’t require harsh chemicals for germicidal activity. Simply keeping the horse’s environment clean can go a long way to reducing exposure to pathogens.

While doing some research recently, I read an article about procedures to control respiratory outbreaks caused by equine influenza and EHV-1 published in a 1983 edition of The Irish Field. (I did this in a library, holding the actual paper copy in my hands, as it was not available online