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Dear Trainers, Veterinarians and all industry Participants,

As you are likely aware, Agriculture Victoria has been investigating the cause of multiple sudden deaths in horses on separate properties since Tuesday 4 July, 2023 in Victoria.

The affected horses reportedly died quickly on properties on the Mornington Peninsula, south-east Melbourne, and southwest Victoria, with no common links currently evident.

The NSW Department of Primary Industries has stated that there have been no similar incidents of concern in New South Wales, and that they are closely monitoring the situation.

Racing NSW advises trainers and veterinarians to remain hypervigilant in monitoring horses for signs of illness and disease. In particular:

• All industry participants are asked to their local veterinarian immediately if they have a case/s of sudden death or any sudden onset of illness in any of their horses, including non-Thoroughbreds.
• Veterinarians attending a case/s of unexpected death or illness, where a cause cannot be established or when horses present with unusual clinical signs, are asked to ring the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 as soon as possible.
• Industry participants are also asked to report any such cases of concern to Racing NSW via email to [email protected]
• Although initial samples in Victoria have tested negative for Hendra virus, precautions should be taken when attending acutely ill or dead horses, including using full PPE (gumboots, overalls and gloves, safety eyewear and P2 respirator masks).
• Participants are reminded to be mindful of what is shared online/reported to avoid disseminating any potential misinformation that may cause alarm.

Yours sincerely,

Dr Peter Curl (Racing NSW Chief Veterinary Officer)