Updated biosecurity guidelines will help lessen the chance of disease outbreaks. • QHN file photo

Updated AAEP Biosecurity Guidelines Now Available

The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) has published updated biosecurity guidelines to help minimize the occurrence and mitigate the spread of potential disease outbreaks.

The downloadable PDF file incorporates comprehensive information and step-by-step protocols in three distinct areas: identification of key personnel, important contacts and reference materials; routine biosecurity protocol; and outbreak response. The AAEP’s Infectious Disease Committee updated the protocols.

The outbreak of an infectious disease can inflict significant economic hardship due to loss of horses, loss of use and shutdown of industry activity. To further reduce risk, the AAEP is assembling a companion worksheet that will serve as a practical resource for practitioners to use with their clients in planning for an outbreak. This fillable PDF worksheet is expected to be available in March.

View the updated guidelines or save them to your phone or tablet for future reference by clicking here. Additional biosecurity information specific to common situations and locations such as breeding operations, events and travel are available from the Equine Disease Communication Center through the “Biosecurity” link at equinediseasecc.org.