Equine influenza has been confirmed in Wellington County, Ontario. During the week of Oct 5, 2026 fevers (39.5-40 C) started appearing in the stabled horses followed by coughing. The virus has quickly spread affecting approximately half of the resident horses with both stabled and outdoor horses affected. On Oct 15, a 6 year old gelding was confirmed positive for Influenza by PCR on nasal swabs. EHV-5 is also present. The horse is recovering, 25 other horses were exposed. The horse was not vaccinated.
The facility manager, working with their veterinarian, has implemented voluntary animal movement restrictions and infection control procedures.