ahs awareness
EQUINE DISEASE ALERT SUMMARY
South Africa & Botswana Sept 2025 – 23 Feb 2026
AHS (AFRICAN HORSE SICKNESS)
EEV (Equine Encephalosis Virus)
WNV (WEST NILE VIRUS)
AHS + EEV
OTHER VIRAL
TOTAL
The Quick Facts
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What is it? A non-contagious but highly infectious viral disease spread by Culicoides midges.
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The Forms: * Dunkop (Pulmonary): High fever and respiratory distress (approx. 95% mortality).
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Dikkop (Cardiac): Swelling of the head and eyes (approx. 50% mortality).
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Mixed Form: A combination of both.
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Horse Sickness Fever: The mildest form, usually in vaccinated horses.
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When is the Danger? Midges are most active from sunset to sunrise, especially after heavy rains or in high-humidity periods.
Practical Prevention Checklist
- Stable at Night: Keep horses in from dusk until after dawn.
- Vector Control: Use fans (midges are weak fliers) and midge-proof netting or blankets.
- Temperature Checks: Take your horse’s temperature daily. A spike (above $38.5$°C) is your first warning sign.
- Vaccination: Ensure annual OBP vaccinations are done during the legal window (June – October).
Current Risk Level
%
AHS Emergency Toolkit
If you suspect your horse has AHS or if you have a confirmed case in your area, please report it immediately. Early reporting helps the entire community stay alert.
Clicking this will open a chat with Mary who coordinates an emergency response and support group.
News & Emergency Updates
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2. Your Daily Defense:
The Temperature Log
The most effective way to catch AHS early is by monitoring your horse’s baseline temperature. A sudden spike is often the only warning sign you get.
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Tip: Take temperatures at the same time every day (ideally morning and evening).
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Normal Range: $37.5$°C to $38.5$°C.
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Action: If the temp exceeds $38.5$°C, contact your vet and Mary immediately.
[Downloadable PDF: Daily Temperature & Health Log] > A simple, printable chart to hang on your stable door to track your horse’s vitals.
Details
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