UK Authorities Introduce Swamp Fever Precautions

Due to the recent cases of swamp fever in Ireland, the Horseracing Regulatory Authority and British Horseracing Board have devised a protocol that all runners from Ireland will need to have a negative Coggins test prior to being allowed to race in Britain.

There will be no blanket ban on runners from Ireland at present, however.

British-trained horses that have been to Ireland will also have to produce a negative test on their return.

The Coggins test checks for antibodies in the horse's blood. This test is often needed to prove to others a particular horse is safe to be around other horses.

Dr Peter Webbon, the HRA's Chief Executive said: 'I have held industry-wide discussions over the past week with DEFRA, the British Equine Veterinary Association, the Irish Racing Authorities, the Animal Health Trust and stakeholders in racing over here.

'While the risk of the spread of the disease within Ireland and over to Britain is low, we feel we need to introduce a requirement for testing both to safeguard the British racehorse population and to create a database of movements to which we can refer if the situation in Ireland deteriorates.

'Like DEFRA we are keeping the situation under constant review and further measures could be taken as and when the need arises.'

Until further notice, trainers are required to notify Weatherbys of the dates of travel to and return from Ireland (including Northern Ireland), of any horse in their care.

? PA Sport