A sudden increase in equine influenza (EI) outbreaks has been identified in the UK during April 2026, prompting calls for heightened vigilance across the equine sector.
Since the beginning of the month, the Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance (EIDS) group has recorded six confirmed outbreaks of equine influenza on premises across six separate counties in England. Detailed information is currently available for five of these cases.
Confirmed outbreaks have been reported in Berkshire, Hampshire, Kent, Lincolnshire and North Yorkshire, with an additional case identified in the East of England. This marks a notable rise compared to just two outbreaks recorded across the UK during the entire first quarter of 2026.
Initial findings highlight several key factors associated with the recent outbreaks. Five cases involved horses that had recently arrived on premises, including three animals imported from European countries such as Ireland and the Netherlands. Two outbreaks involved horses that had previously been vaccinated against equine influenza.
Testing methods used to confirm infection varied. Two cases were identified using in-house point-of-care testing platforms, including loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) and insulated isothermal PCR (iiPCR). Another case was confirmed through laboratory testing funded by the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) as part of its influenza surveillance scheme, conducted in partnership with Rossdales Laboratories.
EIDS is advising horse owners and veterinary professionals to remain alert to signs of respiratory disease, including fever, reduced appetite, coughing and nasal discharge. Particular attention should be given to recently arrived or unvaccinated horses, although symptoms in vaccinated animals should not be overlooked.
Diagnosis relies on the collection and testing of upper respiratory tract samples, either through laboratory-based PCR methods or point-of-care testing systems that detect viral RNA.
Veterinary and equestrian professionals in the UK are encouraged to report confirmed cases of equine influenza to EIDS via the national disease reporting platform to support ongoing monitoring of the disease across the country.
You can find guidance and resources, including the EIDS ‘What to Do with Equine ‘Flu’ factsheet on the Yard Owner Hub Strangles and Infectious Disease resources