5 February 2010

Authorities in Europe are clamping down on the movements of horses infected with swamp fever after the condition was found in pets arriving in the UK.

Ponies living on a Wiltshire farm are currently being tested for the condition, which is also called equine infectious anaemia (EIA).

The entire flock is under surveillance following the diagnosis of EIA in two horses who recently arrived on the premises from Belgium via Romania, Horse and Hound reports.

Now animal health officials in Belgium have quarantined three yards in the region that received horses from Eastern Europe.

In addition, ponies from the UK and beyond that are believed to have come into contact with the affected equines are being traced in a bid to reduce the spread of the condition.

The department for environment, food and rural affairs (Defra) told the magazine: "Epidemiological investigations are underway to assess all possible contacts and any associated potential risks.

"This risk assessment will inform any further action required."

According to Defra, horses afflicted with the disease tend to suffer from reoccurring fevers, emaciation and swellings.