January 2007

Tamiflu Use In Horses

Influenza virus infection, as in people, is much more serious than other respiratory viruses. High fevers are the rule, along with severe coughing and heavy nasal discharge. Other body tissues may be invaded by the virus (muscles, joints, heart) and secondary bacterial infections in the lung on top of the viral pneumonia caused by influenza are common.

Horses are typically ill for longer than with other respiratory viruses and usually have a poor appetite. Time to complete recovery is often as long as two to four weeks, and horses should be stall rested for at least two weeks. …