Equine Virus Outbreak In Kedarnath: Authorities Quarantine More Than 1,000 Animals, Vets Rushed In

Equine influenza outbreak in Kedarnath lead to the quarantine of more than 1,000 mules and horses along with the suspension of equine services on the yatra route.

Kedarnath Virus Outbreak: Over 1,000 mules and horses have been quarantined along with the suspension of equine services on the Kedarnath yatra route for a third day after the outbreak of a deadly virus, equine influenza. This virus reportedly affects horses and mules and it has already caused the death of 15 animals in the region. Symptoms of equine influenza was detected in the animals which lead to concerns over animal health and the potential risk of it spreading further. Equine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease with high morbidity but experts note that mortality is low.

According to reports, the animals have been quarantined by the caretakers ad officials from the animal husbandry department. The animals reportedly showed symptoms of equine flu for instance, fever, cough, and nasal discharge. The Rudraprayag district administration has announced an extension of the suspension of mule service on the yatra route as a precautionary measure. The services were already suspended on Tuesday and Wednesday. National Research Centre on Equines (NRCE) team of veterinary doctors from Haryana have visited Kedarnath and take cognizance of the situation. Their report is awaited. Out of the 5,800 equines registered for the pilgrimage, 15 have died since the yatra began last week, mostly due to colic and diarrhoea.

Other Actions Taken

• The infected animals have been removed from the yatra, says reports.
• The infected animals will be re-tested after 14 days with the RTPCR method. RTPCR tests virus through nasal swabs.
• At least 200 animals have been screened by the veterinary team in Rudraprayag.
• At least 700 of them are receiving treatment, as per reports.