Western India Race Horse Owners' Association

Stakes Distribution

2009-04-15T20:46:00.003+05:30

Our WIRHOA Cup was run on 05^th April. WIRHOA had requested for a change in the stakes break up as against what is given by the RWITC Ltd. The break up was different to the usual break up as follows :

WIRHOA (Gross Rs.6,91,500) / RWITC Usual (Gross Rs. 6,91,500)

1^{st =}45% Rs. 3,11,170 / 57% Rs.3,94,155

2^{nd =}28% 1,93,620 / 24% 1,65,960

3^{rd =}19% 1,31,385 / 13% 89,895

4^{th =}8% 55,320 / 6% 41,490

The above distribution enables 2^nd / 3^rd / 4^th placed horses to earn a greater portion and in turn enables a larger proportion of the owners to earn stakes to help meet high costs.

Your feedback is solicited whether we should push for % of stakes distributed as in our WIRHOA race in future for all races.

Please voice your opinion about this in our opinion poll named "Stakes Distribution".

BTF Revision 2009.

2009-04-09T17:25:00.001+05:30

As you are aware the Syce wage agreement expired on 31.12.08 and was to be renewed by the Trainers (WITA). Renewal was delayed due to the EI Epidemic. However, with the commencement of racing on 31.1.09 renewal of the Syce agreement was required to be done. The Trainers have been urged since the last 4 weeks to complete the Syce wage agreement.

The WIRHOA committee had several meetings on this issue and then met with the Trainers. It was decided that a Rs. 1000 increase in BTF was in order (approx Rs. 675 being the impact of labour increase and balance towards increased costs). This was on the same lines as done 3 years ago. It was assumed like 3 years ago the RWITC would also bear another Rs. 250 (RWITC continues to bear the previous Rs. 250). However, this year the RWITC declined to do so.

Therefore, it is up to the individual owner to decide how this Rs. 250 would be borne with their respective trainers. The increase WIRHOA agreed in the BTF debited by the Club is Rs. 1000 with Rs. 250 to be decided by the individual owner.

Letter received from the RWITC regarding 90 days credit and reimbursement of Medical Costs.

2009-02-24T16:38:00.001+05:30

17th February 2009

To,
Mr Geoffrey Nagpal
President
Western India Race Horse Owners' Association Ltd
Mumbai

Dear Sir,

Re: Request for 90 days time to clear the debit balances, etc:

I refer to your letter dated 5th January 2009 on the abovementioned subject.

Your letter referred to above was placed before and considered by the Committee of the Club.

With regard to clearance of debit balances, it was decided to give time to clear only outstanding BTF for the period of 1st November 2008 till 31st January 2009, latest by 28th February 2009 and all the other debits should be cleared immediately.

The Committee regretted its inability to comply with your request that the medical costs incurred owing to Equine Influenza be borne by the Club.

Yours faithfully,

Secretary,
ROYAL WESTERN INDIA TURF CLUB LTD

Copy to: The Accounts Department

Arrival of 2 yr olds in Pune

2009-02-24T16:31:00.001+05:30

WIRHOA has written to the RWITC requesting them to grant us permission at their earliest to allow 2 yr olds in Pune by March 1st, 2009.

Their response is awaited. Please check back for updates on the same.

Further EI Guidelines received from the Govt. of India

2009-02-06T22:21:00.001+05:30

DIAGNOSTIC RESEARCH LABORATORIES, RWITC., LTD.

(Approved by Govt of India)

6 Arjun Marg, Pune 411 001, Maharashtra.

Prof. P.K. Uppal

B. V.SC & AH.M V.Sc., Ph.D (Agra), PhD (Cantab) UK., Fax

FNA VSc, FIAA VR

Founder Professor & Head (B&M),IVRI

Founder Director, National Research Centre on Equines

Former Managing Director BIBCOL. Dept of Bio-Technology

Date:

2nd February 2009

To,

The Secretary, Bangalore Turf Club,

The Secretary, Hyderabad Race Club.

The Secretary, Royal Calcutta Turf Club.

The Secretary, Madras Race Club.

The Secretary, Mysore Race Club.

The Secretary, Delhi Race Club.

The Secretary, RWITC Ltd., Mumbai

Dear Sirs,

Furtherance to the guide lines issued regarding strategies on the control of Equine Influenza amongst various Turf Clubs the following guidelines are further proposed.

Any vaccination programme taken in the country amongst animals comes under the preview of Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.

Any foreign antigen introduced through vaccination either live or killed requires scientific justification.

Horses which have suffered from equine influenza, they need not be burdened with EI vaccine at least for a period of six months.

Horses which have not suffered with the present equine influenza infection if protected, the vaccine regime need to be followed to provide sufficient protective antibodies. Excessive antigen load need to be avoided list horse become immuno tolerance.

With regards,

Prof. P.K. Uppal,

Technical Director.

c.c.: Shri Shivlal Daga, Coordinator, TAI

Notice from RWITC dated 2-2-09 regarding movement of horses

2009-02-06T21:48:00.000+05:30

ROYAL WESTERN INDIA TURF CLUB LIMITED,MUMBAI / PUNE

NOTICE

RE: GUIDELINES FOR MOVEMENT OF THOROUGHBRED HORSES INTO

R.W.I.T.C. LTD. AT MUMBAI / PUNE.

All concerned may kindly note that:

A. All thorough-bred horses arriving at RWITC Ltd. Mumbai / Pune from the Stud Farms / Turf Authorities located in Glanders free States should possess the following documents:

1. Passport;

2. Valid EIA Certificate;

3. A Health Certificate from the Senior / Chief Veterinary Officer where the horse last raced stating that the horse neither suffered nor showed any signs of infectious diseases like EIA, Glanders, African Horse Sickness and Dourine.

B. All thorough-bred horses arriving at RWITC, Ltd. from the Stud Farms / Turf Authorities located in States where Glanders is either reported or notified should possess the following documents:

1. Passport;

2. Valid EIA Certificate;

3. CFT Glanders Certificate from DRL, Pune or NRCE, Hissar (Validity period 30 days).

4. In case a horse is arriving from a Stud Farm a Certificate from Deputy Director / Joint Director of Animal Husbandry Department of that location stating that there is No Glanders cases in that Stud Farm and also within the vicinity of 25 kms from the Stud Farm.

5. In case a horse is arriving from another Turf Authority a Health Certificate from the Senior / Chief Veterinary Officer where the horse last raced stating that the horse neither suffered nor showed any signs of infectious diseases like EIA, Glanders, African Horse Sickness and Dourine.

C. All thorough-bred horses arriving at RWITC Ltd. from the Stud Farms / Turf Authorities should be administered with primary course of approved vaccinations against Equine Influenza comprising of at least 2 doses given in accordance with the manufacturers recommendation but not within 14 days of departure and bearing the Vaccination Certificate with the details of Date of Vaccination, Name of the Vaccine, Batch no. and Expiry date and duly signed by either Chief Veterinarian of the Stud Farm or Panel Veterinarian only and duly endorsed in the passport. Turf Authorities of India is permitting the use of Fluvac Innovator or Proteq Flu. It has been decided that all the 2 year-olds after arrival at Pune, will be given a dose of Fluvac Innovator by the Club Vet.

However if the Senior Veterinary Officer of a turf club certify that particular horse had suffered from Equine Influenza then that horse shall be exempted from vaccination for a period of 6 months from the date of onset of clinical signs of Equine Influenza.

D. The onus would be on the Trainer concerned to ascertain from the RWITC Ltd. in advance of the documents required.

E. Horses without necessary Certificates / passport endorsement will not be permitted to enter the race course under any circumstances.

F. The Stewards may impose any fine or penalty for the breach of these Rules at their discretion

And They're Off

2009-02-03T21:59:00.005+05:30

The Mumbai Season 2009 started off well with 2 days racing with as many as 10 races on both days and rather good fields. We saw some smart timings being clocked and most horses running true to form. Most felt that the break in the winter, which the horses got for the first time ever, did them a world of good. Horses looked well turned out in the paddock as well.

Invitation To All Western India Owners & Trainers

2009-01-28T16:04:00.000+05:30

Medical Costs Reimbursement

2009-01-24T16:31:00.001+05:30

The RWITC has informed us vide their letter no. SEC/PA/1801 dated 22nd January 2009 that or request for reimbursement of medical costs due to EI was considered by the Committee and the Committee regrets it's inability to comply with the request.

They have further informed us that they will consider the request for 90 days credit at their next meeting to be held on 2nd February 2009.

Private Boxes in the Members' Stand

2009-01-23T16:08:00.004+05:30

We have learnt that this season the Committee has decided not to allot any boxes to the members. We have written to them asking them to rethink their decision and to allot the boxes on the 1st and 2nd level as always with a request to these members to accomodate the members from the 3rd level.

Please post your comments on this.

Follow-up

2009-01-23T15:56:00.002+05:30

We have written to the RWITC to let us know as to what they have done regarding our requests for reimbursement of medical costs incurred by the owners due to EI.

Further, we still await a response from them regarding our request of giving the owners 90 days credit from the commencement of racing to clear their debit balances.

Mumbai Season Update

2009-01-23T15:52:00.001+05:30

We have been informed that the Indian Derby has been rescheduled from April 5th to April 12th at the request of the sponsor. Further, contrary to our earlier post, the Gool S.Poonawalla Million will be run on February 15th.

Outstation horses will be allowed to run only in Graded races and will be allowed one prep run before that.

They are at the gates.

2009-01-18T17:01:00.002+05:30

The Government has lifted the ban on movement of horses w.e.f. 19/1/09.

We look forward to the arrival of horses in Mumbai from 20^th Jan. 09 and the commencement of the MUMBAI season from 31^st Jan. 09 as planned. The Prospectus will be sent out shortly.

We are planning an Open House meeting of Owners and the inauguration of our new Owners' room (next to the Owners' Lounge) sponsored by Mr. Zavaray Poonawalla on 1^st Feb. 09 after the last race.

Will update soon with further developments and details.

Racing should start on 31st January in Mumbai.

2009-01-13T23:32:00.002+05:30

We are hopeful of racing starting on 31^st Jan 09. Currently the recommendation from the Animal Husbandry Dept. Pune to end the ban on 19^th Jan 09 is with the Mantralaya Mumbai and has to follow procedure before publication which includes the Minister's signature. Efforts by Mr. Vivek Jain, Mr. Shivlal Daga and Mr. Khushroo Dhunjibhoy have to be acknowledged.

The rumour that Mrs. Maneka Gandhi was against bringing forward the end of the ban from 15^th Feb to 19^th Jan is untrue and she is currently not involved in this matter.

We expect horses to move on or around 20^th to 21^st Jan. The horses are well. Yesterday 13^th Jan - 1104 horses were in work, out of which 401 were on the inner sand with several doing fast work.

The Prospectus is being finalized with racing starting on 31^st Jan and 1^st Feb. And the season going up to 3^rd May with 27 race days as against 43 last year. Most of the sponsors have stood by the Club and we will see most of the sponsored races being run. ALL THE INDIAN CLASSICS ARE BEING RUN.

The main Classics are being held as follows,

Indian 1000 Guineas – 1^st March

Indian 2000 Guineas 8^th March

Indian Oaks 29^th March

and lastly the Indian Derby on 5^th April.

All the graded races will be run except The Gool S. Poonawalla. The Poonawalla Breeders Multi-Million will be run on 22nd March. The Indian St. Leger will be run in Pune 2009. A decision from the sponsor of the Shapoorji Pallonji Juvenile millions is awaited after which it will be known if they are being run this season or postponed to Pune 2009. All these decisions have been made keeping in mind the dates for the various sponsors and after due deliberation and inputs from the Prospectus Core Group consisting of Mr. Vivek Jain, Mr Geoffrey Nagpal(WIRHOA), Mr. Gautam Lala(WIRHOA), Mr. Hoshang Nazir(WIRHOA), The Handicapper & Mr. Rehanullah Khan(Trainers' representative of WITA).

All is in place to start racing. We are only awaiting the lifting of the ban. The only other uncertainty is the members stand being ready and usable with the requisite permissions.

Update

2009-01-05T16:12:00.002+05:30

We have written to the RWITC mentioning what was decided at our last WIRHOA meeting. Some of these points are,

1. The need to improve our Lab so that it is equipped to do all sorts of tests.
2. To set up a quarrantine station to serve both Mumbai and Pune.
3. Standards of hygene to be maintained in the stable areas.
4. To put in place some protocol for detection and treatment of other deseases like equine herpes, etc.
5. To put in place some protocol for outstation horses and 2 year olds coming into the center.
6. They have been informed of our unanimous view that racing must start by end of January 2009 and even the minimum number of runners may be reduced for the first week.
7. Medical costs incurred by the Owners due to EI should be borne by the RWITC Ltd.
8. Owners be given 90 days from commencement of racing to clear debit balances in their accounts.

Minutes of the Meeting of the Ei Core Group held on 3-1-09 in Mumbai

2009-01-04T22:39:00.001+05:30

MINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE CORE GROUP CONSTITUTED IN CONNECTION WITH THE EQUINE INFLUENZA HELD AT 2.30 P.M. ON SATURDAY, 3^RD JANUARY 2009, IN THE MEETING ROOM, ABOVE THE WEIGHING ROOM, RACE COURSE, MUMBAI:

Present:

Shivlal Daga, Esquire - Chairman, Co-ordination Committee, TAI

Mr. Mohan Thakur - Committee Member, RWITC Ltd.

Mr. N.H.S. Mani - Deputy Secretary, RWITC Ltd.

Mr. Geoffrey B. Nagpal - Representative of WIRHOA Ltd.

Diwan Arun Nanda - Representative of WIRHOA Ltd.

Mr. Shiven Surendranath - Representative of WIRHOA Ltd.

Mr. Pesi Shroff - Representative of WITA Ltd.

Having been duly proposed and seconded, Diwan Arun Nanda took the Chair for the Meeting.

Mr. Zavaray S. Poonawalla, Dr. Anil Kumar and Dr. D. Swaminathan were granted leave of absence from the meeting.

The Minutes of the Meeting held on 22^nd December 2008 were approved and confirmed.

At the outset, the Core Group noted the resumption of racing at Delhi and Kolkata. It was noted that the horses at these centres were affected by Equine Influenza after the outbreak of Equine Influenza at the Pune Race Course yet they resumed racing before the RWITC could do so.

The Deputy Secretary informed the meeting that at the behest of Mr. Shivlal Daga, he had spoken to Mr. Shujaat Hussain, the Senior Stipendiary Steward at the Delhi Race Club after the first day of racing in Delhi, after the outbreak of Equine Influenza and Mr. Hussain had informed that there was absolutely no problem and all the horses participated in the races on the first day, performed exactly like before and there was no deterioration in their performance. The Deputy Secretary also stated that Mr. Hussain had visited the stables on the very next day morning to see the condition of runners on the first day and all the runners were sound and none of them were coughing etc. Letter dated 1^st January 2009 from Col. R.S. Gupta, Senior Veterinary Officer, Delhi Race Club was tabled and noted.

It was noted that Mr. Shivlal Daga, Mr. Geoffrey Nagpal, Mr. Khushroo N. Dhunjibhoy and Dr. F.F. Wadia had met the Commissioner, Animal Husbandry in Pune on 26^th December and submitted representations regarding the notification issued by the Government of Maharashtra banning movement of horses and racing. The Commissioner was very receptive of the request made by the abovementioned gentlemen and he ordered an immediate inspection of all affected equidae at various studs, race course and Matheran. He had stated that if the report showed no horses with clinical signs of Equine Flu, he would recommend to the Department Secretary, Agricultural Ministry, Government of Maharashtra to rescind the notification. He stated that he would do this in a time bound period of about 7 days. It was noted that the representation was being pursued and it was hopeful that the Government may relax the ban imposed on racing and movement tentatively with effect from mid-January 2009.

Mr. P. Shroff joined the meeting at this stage.

A discussion took place at which time it was noted that about 1000 horses were working including 205 on the inner sand. It was felt that the situation has improved considerably and therefore it would be in the fitness of things to gear up for the commencement of the Mumbai Meeting 2008-2009.

On being asked Mr. Pesi Shroff stated that in his opinion, horses will be ready to race by 1^st February 2009. During further discussion, it was gathered that with the exception of a few trainers, majority of trainers were in favour of commencing the racing on 1^st February 2009.

With an assumption of a relaxation of the ban imposed by the Government on movement and racing as stated above, it was felt that all efforts be made to commence the truncated Mumbai Meeting 2008-2009 by 1^st February 2009. Mr. Shivlal Daga mentioned that as per the Racing Fixtures, this Club was scheduled to race on 31^st January 2009 and 1^st February 2009, and considering the feedback from Delhi and Kolkata, Mumbai Racing Season should commence on 31^st January 2009. The other Members present concurred with the suggestion of Mr. Daga.

Thereafter a discussion took place regarding framing of prospectus for the Mumbai Meeting at which time Mr Geoffrey Nagpal mentioned that the WIRHOA Ltd has already written to the Chairman of the Stewards to consider constituting a Core Group comprising of Stewards, representatives from WIRHOA Ltd and WITA Ltd and the Handicapper to frame the prospectus for the Mumbai Meeting. The Deputy Secretary mentioned that this letter of WIRHOA Ltd was being placed before the Stewards of the Club at their meeting to be held on 8^th January 2008.

Thereafter a discussion took place at which time it was felt that the prospectus for atleast the first two days of racing should be finalised and made available to the owners and trainers so that they could prepare their horses. It was felt that for the first two days only there should be six races on each day and one race for each Class and one baby race. The distance of these races should be five and six furlongs. It was decided to recommend to the Stewards of the Club to finalise prospectus for the first two days for the abovementioned basis. It was felt necessary for the Owners' Association to ask the trainers to start racing from 31^st January 2009. However, no trainers be forced to enter their horses and it would be left to the individual trainers to take a decision in this matter and those trainers who intend to start racing their horses later were free to do so.

Thereafter, a discussion took place regarding shifting of horses from Pune to Mumbai. It was decided that once the ban on movement of horses is removed, the horses should start shifting to Mumbai as the infrastructure was ready in Mumbai.

A discussion took place after which it was decided that all the trainers be informed that in case of fever, cough, nasal discharge etc. the trainers concerned should immediately report the matter to the Senior Veterinary Officer with the name of the horse which was coughing and / or which has fever and / or which has nasal discharge so that the Senior Veterinary Officer can look into the case and take necessary action for the recovery of the horse.

Arising out of a discussion, it was decided that the stable area at the Pune Race Course especially the Empress Garden be kept clean even when the horses were in Mumbai and stable area should be disinfected before the horses shift from Mumbai to Pune.

As regards, water dips in Mumbai, it was noted that work on these dips were in progress and would be ready in due course.

Mr. Pesi Shroff mentioned that Dr. Swaminathan has issued various advisory notices to the trainers prohibiting endoscopy, stomach tubing, any other procedures involving the respiratory tract, etc. Since all the horses have recovered and there are no clinical signs for Equine Influenza in the last six weeks, the Pune Race Course is free of any epidemic including Equine Influenza. Therefore the Senior Veterinary Officer should issue a circular to that effect. Mr. Daga mentioned that since the Senior Veterinary Officer cannot issue the circular on his own without the approval of the Stewards, this matter will be taken up at the Meeting of the Stewards of the Club to be held on 8^th January 2009.

Mr. Pesi Shroff thereafter tabled quotations for equipment to collect nails and sharp metal objects from tracks. It was noted that there were two types of magnetic equipment to pick up nails and sharp objects from the track (separately for grass and sand) and the cost for the same was approximately Rs. 2,50,000/-. It was decided that if these magnetic equipment are useful, atleast one of them which was more suitable may be procured first and the second one could be procured at a later date after using the first one successfully.

There being no other points, the meeting terminated.

Message from the President.

2008-12-27T15:56:00.005+05:30

President's message

As over 1000 horses are now in work at Pune it was planned to move to Mumbai in the 1st week of January and start racing in the 1st week of February. However the State Government on 15th December by its notification banned the movement of horses for 2 months from 15th December upto 15th February.Mr. Shivlal Daga, Mr. Kushroo Dhunjibhoy, Dr. Farookh Wadia and the undersigned alongwith Dr. Uppal visited the Commissioner Animal Husbandary Dept., Pune to represent against the said notification. We wanted the withdrawal of the same as horses have been rested for 6-8 weeks already.I am happy to inform you our visit and point of view was well received. The positive response should result in horses moving to MUMBAI in the 2nd week of January once the checks and formalities required are completed by the Dept. The notification should be withdrawn by 2nd week January.

We are having an Owners Meeting on the 3rd January, 2009 (Saturday) at 5.30 pm in the WIRHOA Lounge. Please do attend.

Minutes of the Meeting of the EI Core Group heldo on 22-12-08

2008-12-27T15:54:00.001+05:30

MINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE CORE GROUP CONSTITUTED IN CONNECTION WITH THE EQUINE INFLUENZA HELD AT 6.00 P.M. ON MONDAY, 22^ND DECEMBER 2008 IN THE PARTY ROOM, ABOVE THE WEIGHING ROOM, RACE COURSE, MUMBAI:

***********************************************************************************************

Present:-

Mr Geoffrey Nagpal - Representative of WIRHOA Ltd

Mr Shivlal Daga - Chairman, Co-ordination Committee, TAI

Mr Mohan Thakur - Representative of RWITC Ltd

Mr Shiven Surendranath - Representative of WIRHOA Ltd

Mr Khushroo N Dhunjibhoy - Owner

Mr N H S Mani - Deputy Secretary, RWITC Ltd

Dr D Swaminathan - Senior Veterinary Officer, RWITC Ltd

Mr Pesi Shroff - Representative of WITA Ltd

Dr Anil Kumar - Representative of WITA Ltd

Having been duly proposed and seconded Mr Geoffrey Nagpal took the Chair for the meeting.

Notification dated 15^th December 2008 issued by the Deputy Secretary to Government, Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development and Fisheries Department, was tabled, read and considered.

It was noted that the abovementioned notification prohibits holding of races, transportation and movement of horses within the state, outside the state and also within the district for two months with effect from 15th December 2008.

A discussion took place at which time it was felt that advent of such a notification, at a stage when all the horses have recovered from the Equine Influenza and majority of horses started working, was not in the fitness of things and therefore it would be necessary to make a representation to the Government requesting them to reconsider this ban, in view of the foregoing facts. It was decided that the WITA Ltd and WIRHOA Ltd should make a representation requesting Government to relax the notification wherein atleast the horses could be shifted from Pune to Mumbai and the Mumbai Racing Season 2008-09 could commence from 1^st February 2008.

During further discussion, it was noted that there were few respiratory cases in Pune. Dr Swaminathan suggested that Endoscopy, Stomach tubing and any other procedures involving the respiratory tract should be prohibited in order eliminate the possibility of such diseases spreading to other horses. Accordingly, he was asked to issue a notice to all Trainers and Private Veterinarians. Dr Swaminathan was also asked to incorporate in the notice that the Trainers and Private Veterinarians should inform Dr Swaminathan immediately if they come across any symptoms of any infectious diseases for further control measures. In the event of any of the trainers and/or private veterinarians not coming forward and informing the Senior Veterinary Officer of such diseases, the Core Group would recommend severe disciplinary action against such trainers and/or private veterinarians including delicensing them. Dr Swaminathan was asked to undertake random sampling to check such disease.

A discussion took place at which time it was noted that the cleanliness in Pune stables was not upto the mark and there were a lot of complaints from trainers about nails being found in the working track. The Deputy Secretary was asked to instruct the Estate Officer to ensure proper cleanliness of the stable area as also to ensure that the nails were removed from the track.

During further discussion, it was felt that separate quarantine facilities be made available in the vicinity of Pune so that in the event of horses need to be quarantined, especially in view of outbreak of any disease, these quarantine stables could be used. It was decided to recommend to the Committee of the Club to consider this issue.

Letters dated 4^th and 15^th December 2008 from WITA Ltd was considered and it was decided to request the Committee of the Club to provide infrastructure facilities such as stables, track, etc. at the Pune Race Course till end of February 2009 by then all the horses will have shifted to Mumbai, subject to relaxation on the current notification of the Government of Maharashtra.

There being no other points, the meeting terminated.

Minutes of the Meeting of the EI Core Group held on 14-12-08 in Pune

2008-12-22T23:17:00.001+05:30

MINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE CORE GROUP CONSTITUTED IN CONNECTION WITH THE EQUINE INFLUENZA HELD AT 11.30 A.M. ON SUNDAY, 14^TH DECEMBER 2008, IN THE VICTORIA ROOM, TURF CLUB HOUSE, PUNE.

Present:-

Dr Cyrus S Poonawalla - Chairman, RWITC Ltd

Mr Khushroo N Dhunjibhoy - Committee Member, RWITC Ltd

Mr Geoffrey Nagpal - Representative of WIRHOA Ltd

Mr Shiven Surendranath - Representative of WIRHOA Ltd

Mr N H S Mani - Deputy Secretary, RWITC Ltd

Dr D Swaminathan - Senior Veterinary Officer, RWITC Ltd

Mr P Shroff - Representative of WITA Ltd

Dr Anil Kumar - Representative of WITA Ltd

Dr Hasneyn Mirza - Consultant appointed by WIRHOA Ltd

Having been duly proposed and seconded Dr Cyrus S Poonawalla took the Chair for the meeting.

It was noted that the Committee of the Club at its meeting held on 4^th December 2008 decided to induct Dr F F Wadia, President, National Horse Breeding Society of India in the Core Group.

The Deputy Secretary informed the meeting that Diwan Arun Nanda, representative of the WIRHOA Ltd and Dr F F Wadia, President, NHBSI have expressed their inability to attend this meeting and requested for leave of absence from the meeting. They were granted leave of absence from the meeting.

Mr Zavaray S Poonawalla was also granted leave of absence from the meeting.

It was noted that the Committee of the Club at its meeting held on 4^th December 2008 has tentatively decided to commence the Mumbai Meeting 2008-09 from 1^st February 2009 barring unforeseen circumstances. The Committee has also decided that barring unforeseen circumstances, the Indian 1000 Guineas, the Indian 2000 Guineas, the Indian Oaks and the Indian Derby be held as per rescheduled dates and the Indian St Leger could be run during the next Pune Meeting 2009. It was decided that the Indian Derby be tentatively rescheduled to be held end March/early April 2009 and the Indian Oaks be rescheduled to the third week of March. The two Guineas races could be run end February/early March.

As regards the Annual Sales 2009, it was noted that the Committee of the Club has decided that the same be held in Pune as soon as feasible in March 2009 and the exact dates would depend on the situation prevalent in Western India. The dates were also dependant on dates on which various Turf Authorities/Racing Centres would permit movement of two year olds into their racing stables.

It was noted that at the last meeting of the Core Group held in Pune, one of the Members of the Core Group suggested that Fibrinogen test be done for all horses at the Pune Race Course. Dr Swaminathan was asked to find out the feasibility of getting the Fibrinogen Test of all horses done at lab in Pune and the cost thereof. Mr Geoffrey Nagpal had requested Dr Cyrus S Poonawalla, Chairman of the Club that the cost of this test should be borne by the Club and the Chairman had stated that he would take up this matter at the next Committee Meeting. At the last Committee Meeting, Dr Swaminathan informed that only two labs i.e. SRL/Ranbaxy Lab and Lalpath Lab in Pune are doing this test and the cost of each test was Rs.700/-. Since there were about 1200 horses in Pune, the total cost of the test would be in the region of Rs.8,40,000/- for testing all horses in Pune. Dr Swaminathan opined that Fibrinogen estimation was mainly helpful to assess whether the horse is undergoing infective stage or recovery stage in cases of bacterial pneumonia, inflammation, etc. However, the role of fibrinogen estimation to assess the same in viral outbreaks was questionable, as per the literature on the subject, and the opinions of most of the experts. Fibrinogen estimation is an outdated test and it was not possible to do this test in any veterinary clinical pathology laboratory, and doing it in a human lab would result in 12% to 20% error due to non-calibration of the machine for equine standards. In his opinion, WC count and differential count was direct and better indicators to assess the infective stage of the affected horse and these tests are done for all horses before they are allowed to work. In view of the opinion expressed by Dr Swaminathan, it was decided to refer the matter back to the Core Group for their consideration. This was taken note of by the Core Group.

A discussion took place at which time it was noted that a few horses were coughing. It was also noted that some horses were coughing because of the strain due to the trot. Dr Mirza stated that he had seen a couple of horses coughing during the work. He stated that it is to be ascertained as to whether horses were coughing in the stables. Dr Swaminathan stated that one of the horses of Trainer Narendra Lagad coughed when came for work and therefore the horse was taken back and was not permitted to work.

Mr Shiven Surendranath stated that there were people from small racing centers coming to buy horses and because of the present status they have gone back without buying. He further stated that it was given to understand that there were cases of relapses which were brushed under the carpet. The Senior Veterinary Officer stated that he has not come across any such relapse cases and no trainer / Private Practitioners have reported to him about the same. During further discussion it was felt that the trainers should be informed when they meet the Core Group that relapse cases, if any, should be brought to the notice of the Club's Senior Veterinary Officer immediately.

Dr Swaminathan stated that new saddle cloths were issued to all horses except about 50 horses who had shown some problems in the blood picture and on auscultation.

Dr Poonawalla stated that he was informed by the President of the Delhi Race Club that they were planning to resume racing soon and Dr Poonawalla has advised them to resume racing in February 2009 by then the horses would be ready to race.

A discussion took place regarding movement of horses, two year olds coming in, vaccination of two year olds, outside horses such as polo horses, etc. coming in, and conduct of Annual Sales, after which the following decisions were taken:-

(a) The horses would start shifting to Mumbai from 1^st January 2009. Only those horses who have worked for a minimum of four weeks would be permitted to shift to Mumbai after clearance from the Senior Veterinary Officer of the Club. A few days here and there could be considered by the Senior Veterinary Officer at his discretion.

(b) By end of January 2009 or by first week of February 2009 all horses will have shifted to Mumbai.

(c) Those horses who have completed three weeks of trotting either in the Bund School or on the outer Sand Track would be permitted to canter on the inner sand track and these facilities would be made available until the last horse leaves from Pune.

(d) Annual Sales can be tentatively fixed in mid-March 2009 (Monday, 16^th March 2009).

(e) For a period of atleast three weeks, the stables in Pune should remain empty and the same could be disinfected before the yearlings arrive for the Annual Sales.

(f) All yearlings should be vaccinated for Equine Influenza with two doses before they arrive in Pune for the Annual Sale. A circular be sent to all the breeders in this regard and they should be asked to give a declaration confirming vaccination of two doses for Equine Influenza as per the format of declaration given by the Club. Such declaration will contain elaborate details such as date of vaccination, time of vaccination, name of doctor who had given the vaccination, batch number of the vaccine and so on to ensure that no one could easily submit a false declaration without vaccinating yearlings. In the event of any stud farm being unable to procure the vaccine, the Club could provide the same on payment.

(g) No two year olds would be permitted to come to Mumbai at all this year and all the two year olds would have to stay in Pune. Lunging facilities, etc. would be provided in Pune for the two year olds staying back after the Annual Sale.

(h) No polo horses etc. will be permitted to enter the Race Course and there would be a protocol to be laid down for all these horses to have identification, vaccination, etc. This protocol for identification, vaccination etc. would also be applicable to Amateur Riders' Club horses.

Letter dated 12^th December 2008 from the Headquarters Pune Sub Area stating that they have decided that coaching of Army personnel and their dependants in riding be carried out by using facilities at the centre of the Pune Race Course, was read and considered and the Deputy Secretary was asked to reply to them on the lines indicated at the meeting.

Thereafter the trainers were asked to join the meeting, which they did.

The Chairman informed the trainers of the various decisions taken by the Core Group on this day.

The Chairman also enquired from the trainers as to whether there were any cases of relapse to which the trainers replied in the negative.

The trainers requested that they may be permitted to use the grass track to work their horses.

The trainers stated that they may not be able to shift all the horses by first week of February 2009 and that they need the infrastructure for full of February 2009. The Chairman informed them that atleast for three weeks, the stables in Pune should remain empty and the same could be disinfected before the yearlings arrive for the Annual Sales.

The trainers also stated that outside horses should not be permitted to enter the race course in Mumbai and Pune including horses coming for polo, navy horses, etc. They have also concurred with the decision of the Core Group that no two year olds be permitted to come to Mumbai at all this year and all the two year olds would have to stay in Pune. The trainers stated that they have already written a letter to the Club in this regard.

There being no other points, the meeting terminated.

Note from the President of WIRHOA

2008-12-15T22:41:00.000+05:30

The Core Committee for Equine Influenza met in Pune on Sunday 14^th Dec. 08.

The meeting was chaired by Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla and attended by the undersigned. The tentative plan was to start racing by 1^st Feb. 09. Horses are likely to move to Mumbai by the 1^st week of Jan. 09. Several matters including future protocol, vaccinations of the new batch of 2 year olds etc. were discussed.

The following statistics show that horses are well on the way to recovery and

presently over 500 horses have started working. The situation is progressing well

considering the circumstances.

Date Fever Cough with discharge

10/12 - 5

11/12 - 4

13/12 1 4

14/12 - 5

Detailed minutes will be posted on the blog shortly.

Geoffrey Nagpal

President

Letter received from the RWITC Ltd. regarding the Indian Classics and Annual Auction Sales.

2008-12-09T16:12:00.001+05:30

The following letter addressed to WIRHOA and WITA has been sent by RWITC Ltd.

The President
Western India Race Horse Owners Association Ltd

The Chairman
Western India Trainers' Association Ltd

Dear Sirs,

Re: Mumbai Meeting 2008-09 and Annual Sale 2009

I write to inform you that the Committee of the Club at its meeting held on 4th December 2008 has decided to tentatively commence the Mumbai Meeting 2008-09 from Sunday, 1st February 2009, looking to the progress of the horses at Pune.

It was also decided that as far as possible the Indian 1000 Guineas, the Indian 2000 Guineas, the Indian Oaks and the Indian Derby will be held at the Mumbai Meeting 2008-2009 on rescheduled dates and the Indian St. Leger could be run during the next Pune Meeting 2009.

It was decided that the Indian Derby be tentatively rescheduled to end March / early April 2009 and the Indian Oaks be rescheduled to the third week of March. The two Guineases races could be run end February / early March.

As regards the Annual Sales 2009, it was decided that the same be held in Pune as soon as feasible in March 2009 and the exact dates would depend on the situation prevalent in Western India. The dates are also dependant on dates on which various Turf Authorities/Racing Centres would permit movement of two year olds into their racing stables. The date of the second installment of the initial entry fee for the Sales, which is 7th January 2009, has been rescheduled to a later date, to be
decided once the date for the Sales is finalized. The last date for the final entry has also been extended and a fresh date will be
decided as soon as the date for the sale is finalized.

Yours faithfully,
Secretary,
ROYAL WESTERN INDIA TURF CLUB LTD.

Minutes of the Meeting of the EI Core Group held on 30-11-08 at Pune.

2008-12-09T16:05:00.000+05:30

MINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE CORE GROUP CONSTITUTED IN CONNECTION WITH THE EQUINE INFLUENZA HELD AT 11.30 A.M. ON SUNDAY, 30^TH NOVEMBER 2008, IN THE BALL ROOM, TURF CLUB HOUSE, PUNE:

Present:

Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla - Chairman, RWITC Ltd.

Mr. Shivlal Daga - Chairman, Co-ordination Committee, TAI

Diwan Arun Nanda - Representative of WIRHOA Ltd.

Mr. Geoffrey Nagpal - Representative of WIRHOA Ltd.

Mr. Shiven Surendranath - Representative of WIRHOA Ltd.

Mr. N.H.S. Mani - Deputy Secretary, RWITC Ltd.

Dr. D. Swaminathan - Senior Veterinary Officer, RWITC Ltd.

Mr. Pesi Shroff - Representative of WITA Ltd.

Dr. Anil Kumar - Representative of WITA Ltd.

Dr. Hasneyn Mirza - Consultant appointed by WIRHOA Ltd.

Having been duly proposed and seconded, Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla took the Chair for the meeting.

Letter dated 29^th November 2008 from Mr. Zavaray S. Poonawalla was read and considered wherein he had mentioned that as much as he would like to attend this meeting to share views and ideas for the betterment of race horses and the fraternity, he was unable to do so because of bio-security reasons, in that as he was attending his stud farms; he was unable to attend this meeting as he was keeping himself away from anybody who was in touch with horses at Pune Race Course or with horses at any other places. He had further mentioned that he was however on standby during the time the Core Group meeting was underway and would be pleased to receive a call in case the Core Group wishes to discuss any matters with him. He was granted leave of absence from the meeting.

On being asked, Dr. Hasneyn Mirza stated that horses should start slow work only after completion of six to eight weeks from the start of the symptoms of Equine Influenza. If the horses were permitted to work before completion of six to eight weeks from the start of the symptom they were likely to become poor performer / bleeder and their racing career was likely to be jeopardized. After six to eight weeks they could be given slow work for a month and gradually take up their normal work. He added that as per advice, one day of cough needs one week rest. He added that there was a small percentage of horses which were unaffected by Equine Influenza who could start slow work.

Dr. Mirza emphasized on the need of having Standard Operating Procedures in place for various diseases such as Equine Influenza, Glanders, Strangles, herpes etc. He stated that no other country would allow the horses to come from a country who keep these diseases under the carpet. He further stated that this would also affect the credibility and therefore it would be imperative to have systems in place.

Dr. C.S. Poonawalla and Diwan Arun Nanda concurring with the views expressed by Dr. Mirza also stated that it would be better to have the systems in place including protocol for prevention of outbreak of such diseases.

Dr. Mirza stated that the National Research Centre for Equines was really a good laboratory and all the Race Courses should be associated with this lab until an alternative arrangement was made so that testing could be done in these labs.

Dr. Poonawalla stated that there should be a short term and long term plan separately. He stated that the immediate requirement was to deal with the present situation and then to make a long term plan.

It was noted that blood picture of all the horses were taken before they were permitted to work and this was to be done without fail for all horses even in the future.

Mr. Geoffrey Nagpal stated that though some of his horses have completed four weeks after the last clinical symptom they appear to be not ready to work and therefore they would have to wait for some more time before they start working. Mr. Shiven Surendranath sought to know whether four weeks should be completed from the date of the last symptom or from the start of the symptom. Dr. Hasneyn Mirza reiterated that horses could start work only after six to eight weeks from the start of the symptom. Dr. Mirza also stated that whilst he was observing the work of horses in the morning, it appeared to him that couple of horses were coughing. Mr. Daga stated that in this season slight cough is normal but if any horses cough regularly then such horses should be taken off from the work.

It was decided that only horses which have completed six weeks from the start of the symptoms or four clear weeks of rest after relief of suffering from Equine Influenza, whichever was later, should be permitted to work.

Thereafter a discussion took place at which time Mr Shroff stated that Fibrinogen Test could be conducted on all horses. He stated that he had done this test for some of his horses wherein some infection was shown in some of the horses. He stated that he had done this test at a lab called Lalpath Lab in Pune and each test cost about Rs. 700/-.

On being asked Dr Swaminathan stated that the Equine Hospital of the Club does not have the facility to undertake Fibrinogen Test as it requires Autoanalyser. He said that whilst getting the test done at human laboratories, there could be variation of the results by 12% to 20% since the unit was calibrated for human beings. He further stated that fully automatic machines were available for undertaking this test as also other tests; however, it would take about a month's time to procure this machine.

Dr Swaminathan was asked to find out the feasibility of getting the Fibrinogen Test of all horses done at a Lab in Pune and the cost thereof. Mr Geoffrey Nagpal requested Dr Poonawalla that the cost of this test should be borne by the Club. Dr Poonawalla stated that he would take up this matter at the next Committee Meeting.

Dr Swaminathan was asked to brief as to what had transpired at the meeting held in Hissar on 29^th November 2008, which he did. Whilst doing so, Dr Swaminathan informed the Core Group that the National Research Centre for Equines performed PCR and Gene Sequencing of the samples tested for positive for Equine Influenza and they were in the verge of identification of the virus strain involved in the outbreak and they promised to send the above report in three weeks time. They were also seriously thinking about making the vaccines if the strain involved was Ludhiana strain; however vaccine production would take about 8 to 12 months for commercial distribution. He further stated that the Acting Director of NRCE also reported that Ludhiana Strain isolated during the previous outbreak resembles Kentucky strain which was present in the Fluvac Innovator Vaccine. Col. Marwa from the Army informed during the off hours of the meeting that he used DIRECTIGEN FLU-A readymade kits manufactured by Becton Dickinson for the diagnosis of Equine Influenza antigen using the nasal swabs during the initial period of fever and viremia stage and found that these kits were very reliable and efficient in diagnosing Equine Influenza in the early stage.

A discussion took place regarding vaccination of horses at which time it was noted that some of the vaccinated horses were also affected by Equine Influenza. Dr Swaminathan was asked to ascertain an accurate data as to how many vaccinated horses were affected and how many were not affected by the Equine Influenza.

Mr Daga stated that Fluvac Innovator was the vaccine which presently appears to be most effective from information with him. He also stated that if the present outbreak was a different strain then the vaccine makers abroad could include if new vaccines provided Government allowed the strain to be given to them. He went on to say that vaccination was not 100% foolproof as even after mandatorily vaccinating horses in USA and UK periodically, Equine Influenza was endemic in these countries. He stated that the vaccination could perhaps help about 80% of the population and only about 20% may be affected.

Thereafter Dr Swaminathan elucidated on the statistics of horses worked wherein he stated that a total of 180 applications for saddle cloths were received; however during examination of horses prior to work, three horses were found to be abnormal and therefore not permitted to work. The remaining 177 horses worked. During work it was observed that one horse was coughing and another horse had slight nasal discharge. Both these were previously unaffected horses and these horses were taken off from the work till they improved. More horses will work as and when applications are received and horses checked for fitness.

A discussion took place regarding movement of horses to Mumbai, at which time, on being asked Dr Mirza stated that horses can move provided they work for a few days so that they would have the stamina to travel. It was decided that no movement should take place till end of December 2008.

Thereafter the undermentioned Trainers who were present were invited to join the meeting:-

Mr S K Sunderji Mr Subhag Singh Mr Altaf Hussain

Mr Hosidar Dhaji Mr Amjad Khan Mr Jayantilal Ghor

Mr Sanjay Kholse Mr Nana Raghunath Mr Adil Dajee

Ms Nina Lalvani Mr Vinayak Mr Nosher Cama

Mr Narendra Lagad Mr Imtiaz A Sait Mr Magansingh P Jodha

Mr Sangramsinh N Joshi Mr Rehanulla Khan Mr. C.D. Katrak

Mr. Dallas Todywalla

Dr Poonawalla welcomed the Trainers for the meeting.

At the outset he announced as under:-

"It is with deep regret and sorrow that I address a few words to all of you on the tragedy that has befallen on the City of Mumbai.

On behalf of all of you, I take this opportunity to condole all the families who have lost their near and dear ones, as also salute those Commandos and Police Officials who have laid down their lives in martyrdom.

I know that no words are sufficient to console the bereaved families; but let us all pray for the souls of those who have been murdered in this tragedy.

May I request all of you to join me and the Managing Committee and Stewards of the Royal Western India Turf Club Ltd., to stand up in complete silence for two minutes as a mark of respect for the departed souls."

All present at the meeting, stood up in silence for two minutes as a mark of respect for the departed souls.

Since Dr. Poonawalla had to temporarily leave the meeting, he requested the others to continue and he left the meeting.

Mr Arun Nanda informed the meeting that the Western India Race Horse Owners Association Ltd. has appointed Dr Mirza as Consultant as he was handling Equine Influenza outbreak in RCTC and also in touch with several international experts. By this appointment, Dr Swaminathan would get external assistance from Dr Mirza. Mr Nanda asked the trainers to give their feed back about the horses that were already put into work. He requested Dr Mirza to brief the meeting about his experiences to the trainers, Dr. Mirza informed the trainers that minimum of 6 weeks rest to be given from the first date of clinical symptom for Equine Influenza. Dr Mirza stated that when there was outbreak of Equine Influenza abroad it was experienced that the horses that were taken early to work did not perform and hence trainers were advised to give more time to the horses for complete recuperation.

Dr Swaminathan briefed the trainers that after checking the blood picture and auscultation of the horses, new saddle cloth numbers were issued permitting them to work. In case of any suspicious finding of the Auscultation/Blood picture, issuing the saddle cloth number to that horse would be delayed. He cited an example wherein he has already not permitted three horses to work as he came across some abnormalities in the lung sounds/heart rate pattern of these horses.

Dr Poonawalla rejoined the meeting at this stage.

One of the trainers asked Dr Mirza as to how early the horses in Australia started work after the Equine Influenza outbreak and were thereafter found to have setbacks to which Dr Mirza stated that he would have to find out the exact details and he will inform the trainers. He stated that if the horses start work before 6 weeks from the date of first clinical symptom, the performance of the horse was likely to drop and these horses require adequate rest.

On being asked it was clarified that no horse should be permitted to work if they have not completed 6 weeks from the first clinical symptom for Equine Influenza or 4 clear weeks of rest after relief of suffering from Equine Influenza whichever was later.

The trainers present requested that they be given copies of the blood reports in respect of their horses and Dr Swaminathan stated that the same would be provided to them.

With regard to shifting, the trainers were informed that there would be no movement to Mumbai till end of December 2008.

It was decided to hold the next meeting in Pune at 11.00 a.m. on Sunday, 14^th December 2008.

There being no other points the meeting terminated.

EQUINE HERPES VIRUS: FACT SHEET

2008-12-01T16:24:00.001+05:30

Original source: American Association of Equine Practitioners (www.aaep.org), with additional information provided by Dr. Katharina Lohmann, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine (www.wcvm.com).

Definition

Equine herpes virus (EHV) is a common virus occurring in horse populations worldwide. The most common strains are EHV-1 and EHV-4. EHV-1 can cause respiratory diseases, abortions and neurologic disease, while EHV-4 typically causes respiratory disease but can also cause abortions. EHV-1, but not EHV-4, has been identified as a cause of abortion outbreaks and, more recently, outbreaks of neurologic disease. There is no risk of transmission to humans. Respiratory disease caused by EHV is most common in young horses (weanlings and yearlings), while older horses are more likely to transmit the virus without showing clinical signs. Neurologic disease due to EHV-1 infection, also called equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM), results from widespread damage to blood vessel endothelium, including damage to the blood-brain barrier. EHM can cause single cases of disease but has been identified as a cause of outbreaks affecting 20 to 50 per cent of

affected populations. EHM outbreaks may or may not be associated with previous or concurrent respiratory disease. Herpesviruses establish latency, meaning that the virus persists in the horse for the long term, possibly for life, without causing clinical disease. Most horses are considered latently infected by the time they are yearlings. Re-activation of latent infections, and subsequent disease and/or shedding of virus can occur in situations of stress. Stress may include transport, mingling of horses, and concurrent disease. In the absence of clinical signs and without testing, it may be impossible to detect that re-activation has occurred. Re-activation is likely responsible for occurrence of some outbreaks.

Clinical Signs

Fever is one of the most consistent clinical signs, and commonly precedes the

development of other clinical signs. In some cases, fever may be the only sign. Fever may go undetected if horses' temperatures are not taken.

Respiratory disease commonly manifests as fever, coughing and nasal discharge. These signs can also occur with other equine respiratory diseases, such as influenza, and testing is required to determine whether EHV is implicated in an outbreak. Abortions typically occur late in pregnancy (greater than eight months, although earlier cases are reported) and often present no warning signs. Neonatal foals may be infected in utero and are usually abnormal from birth. Signs include weakness, jaundice, respiratory distress, and neurologic signs. Affected foals typically die within several days. Older foals that become infected generally show signs of respiratory disease such as nasal discharge. Neurologic disease (EHM) may be preceded by fever and respiratory signs. EHM typically affects the hind limbs and urinary tract. Common signs include ataxia (incoordination), urine retention and incontinence, and bladder atony. Severely affected horses may become recumbent and unable to rise. "Dog-sitting" may be observed. Horses

generally remain bright and often continue to eat and drink.

Incubation period

The incubation period denotes the time between infection and the onset of clinical signs. It is typically short (as short as 24 hours) and spans four to six days, but can be longer. EHV abortions can occur from two weeks to several months following infection.

Transmission

The virus is transmitted primarily by aerosol and through direct and indirect contact. Aerosol transmission occurs when infectious droplets (coughing or snorting) are inhaled. Shedding by the respiratory route typically lasts for seven to 10 days but can persist longer. A 28-day isolation period is therefore generally recommended after the diagnosis has been established.

Abortions result in distribution of infectious virus in the placenta, fetal membranes and fetal fluids. Aborted fetuses are also infectious. Mares that have aborted also shed virus in their respiratory secretions. Indirect transmission is an important route of transmission of the virus. Indirect

transmission occurs when infectious materials (nasal secretions, fluids from abortions etc.) are moved between infected and un-infected horses by people or fomites (inanimate objects). Poor hygiene (such as lack of handwashing) and sharing of equipment are often responsible. People who have touched or otherwise come in contact with infected horses should change their clothes and thoroughly clean and disinfect their hands before handling other horses.

The virus can survive in the environment for several days to weeks (survival up to 35 days is suggested). The importance of this route of infection is difficult to estimate.

Diagnosis

The disease is often suspected based on clinical signs but diagnostic testing should be pursued to establish the diagnosis. Several tests are available that include serologic tests (test for presence of antibodies in blood), virus isolation and molecular tests (PCR).

Treatment (specific to the neurologic form)

Treatment is mostly supportive and includes anti-inflammatory medication such as corticosteroids. Some horses require IV fluid therapy if they do not maintain their hydration. Horses should be placed in a safe, well-bedded stall, especially if they are severely ataxic and have trouble rising. Recumbent horses may benefit from the use of a sling. Horses that have difficulty urinating may need to be catheterized several times daily and may benefit from medication to support bladder function. Specific treatments directed against the virus are under investigation. Preliminary research suggests a potential benefit of antiviral medications such as acyclovir and valacyclovir.

Prognosis is generally favorable for mildly affected horses, but is poor for those that become recumbent for prolonged periods (days). Horses that recover from the disease may take several weeks to months before neurologic deficits resolve. Some horses may have persistent deficits for the remainder of their life. Horses with bladder paralysis are at risk of developing complications such as infection and persistent urinary incontinence.

Shedding past resolution of clinical signs

Virus is likely shed for up to a week, possibly longer, after resolution of clinical signs. Recovered horses typically develop latent infections and can shed virus with or without showing signs of disease) for the remainder of their lives. Shedding by latently infected horses typically occurs during periods of stress.

Vaccination

Several vaccines against EHV are available. Vaccination should be based on the perceived risk of infection, but is generally recommended for broodmares. Horse owners should talk to their veterinarians about vaccination programs. Horse owners and veterinarians can also consult the vaccination guidelines of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) at http://www.aaep.org/vaccination_guidelines.htm (EHV is covered under "risk-based vaccination guidelines"). None of the currently available vaccines state any claim for protection against the neurologic form of EHV infection. The benefit of vaccination in the face of an outbreak is questionable. Booster vaccination may have some benefit and may reduce virus spread. Booster vaccination has not been associated with detrimental effects. Previously unvaccinated horses are unlikely to benefit from vaccination during outbreaks, as sufficient time to establish an effective vaccination series is not available.

Biosecurity during outbreaks

Horses suspected of having EHV infections should be examined by a veterinarian and tested for virus shedding. Infected horses should be isolated immediately to avoid all contact (direct and indirect) with other horses. Exposed horses should also be isolated. All traffic on and off premises housing infected horses should be suspended. A comprehensive biosecurity protocol should be established for all infected premises in coordination with the attending veterinarian. Biosecurity guidelines are available from the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP). Infected and exposed horses should be isolated from the general population for 28 days following the last identified case. Testing can be done to determine whether horses are

shedding the virus. All personnel should be trained in safe handling of infected horses. Biosecurity guidelines are available and should be discussed with the attending veterinarian. Strict attention to hygiene including proper handwashing is imperative. Thorough cleaning and disinfection of facilities and all equipment are required following an outbreak. EHV is an enveloped virus and is susceptible to many disinfectants. Horse owners should consult information provided for individual disinfectants and/or contact manufacturing companies for information regarding the efficacy of varying disinfectants against EHV. Thorough cleaning and removal or organic debris (such as manure and nasal secretions) is mandatory prior to disinfection. Presence of organic material may inactivate disinfectants.

Biosecurity to prevent outbreaks

Boarding facilities, show grounds etc. should discuss biosecurity with their attending veterinarian and develop a biosecurity protocol specific to their situation. Biosecurity considerations include isolation of new horses upon arrival, testing of new horses upon arrival, and requirements for health certificates and/or vaccination.

MINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE CORE GROUP CONSTITUTED IN CONNECTION WITH THE EQUINE INFLUENZA HELD AT 3.00 P.M. ON SATURDAY, 22ND NOVEMBER 2008, RACECOURSE, MUMBAI

2008-12-01T15:59:00.000+05:30

MINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE CORE GROUP CONSTITUTED IN CONNECTION WITH THE EQUINE INFLUENZA HELD AT 3.00 P.M. ON SATURDAY, 22^ND NOVEMBER 2008, IN THE PARTY ROOM, ABOVE THE WEIGHING ROOM, RACE COURSE, MUMBAI:

Present :-

Mr. Shivlal Daga - Chairman, Co-ordination Committee, TAI

Mr. Geoffrey Nagpal - representative of WIRHOA Ltd

Diwan Arun Nanda - representative of WIRHOA Ltd

Mr. NHS Mani - Deputy Secretary, RWITC Ltd

Dr D Swaminathan - Senior Veterinary Officer, RWITC Ltd

Mr. P Shroff - representative of WITA Ltd

Dr Anil Kumar - representative of WITA Ltd

Having been duly proposed and seconded, Diwan Arun Nanda took the Chair for the meeting.

Mr Zavaray S Poonawalla, representative of the RWITC Ltd was granted leave of absence from the meeting.

Mr Nanda enquired about the request of the WIRHOA Ltd regarding engagement of Dr Hasneyn Mirza to which the Deputy Secretary responded that the Committee of the Club having considered this request decided that it would be more appropriate for the WIRHOA Ltd to engage Dr Mirza to advise them in the matter and that, if necessary, the Club would consider reimbursing the expenses related to engagement of Dr Mirza. Mr Nanda stated that he already had an informal talk with Dr Mirza who has agreed in principle to assist. As regards his professional fee, he would have to be paid Rs.15,000 per visit as consultation fee plus out-of-pocket expenses. Mr Nanda stated that Dr Mirza should be appointed and he and Dr Swaminathan could co-ordinate everything. Dr. Mirza's appointment was confirmed.

Mr Shroff informed that they are happy with the engagement of Dr Mirza and that they were happy with the advice they were receiving from him. Dr Anil Kumar opined that Dr Mirza could hardly contribute anything now since the entire horse population at the RWITC Ltd, except about 120 horses, had gone through the Equine Influenza and at present the affected horses were convalescing.

Mr Geoffrey Nagpal stated that Mr Mirza was familiar with handling the disease and his advice would certainly be beneficial. Mr Nagpal stated that Dr Swaminathan has really done a good job and that Dr Mirza could co-ordinate with Dr Swaminathan. Dr Swaminathan stated that if there was any set back after the work, the expertise of Dr Mirza would be useful in scanning/scrutinizing the scanning done and his opinion could be taken as a second opinion. Mr Nanda stated that Dr Swaminathan is the Senior Veterinary Officer who was responsible and accountable whereas Dr Mirza would be a consultant who could give his input which would certainly be beneficial.

Mr P Shroff stated that the affected horses have come out of the disease; however, a second opinion on scanning etc would be useful.

Thereafter a discussion took place on the letter dated 15^th November 2008 from the WITA Ltd after which the same was taken note of.

The following were also tabled and considered:-

(a) Clinical symptoms data from 3^rd November 2008 to 22^nd November 2008 submitted by Dr Swaminathan;

(b) Letter dated 22^nd November 2008 from Mr P Shroff and Dr Anil Kumar regarding suggested infection protocol for equine.

(d) Statistics concerning affected horses

As regards disinfection in Pune, Dr Swaminathan elaborated on the disinfection plan and mentioned that there would be disinfection undertaken periodically and that one round of the disinfection was already completed. He stated that the next round would be from 24^th November and thereafter one more round commencing on 1^st December and thereafter one further round commencing on 15^th December 2008. It was decided to check the bacterial load before and after disinfection.

Mr Daga stated that he has identified the area for making vehicle dips in the stable area at the Mumbai Race Course and directed the office to make these dips in consultation with him.

Dr Swaminathan showed the data which he has collected from the trainers concerning each horse. On being asked he stated that these details were provided by each trainer duly signed. He further stated that all the trainers have not given this data and he was in possession of data concerning only about 600 horses and the data concerning the remaining horses was awaited. Mr Nanda asked Dr Swaminathan to give a cut off date to the remaining trainers to submit their data by 24^th November 2008.

The Deputy Secretary tabled the sample of the new saddle cloth with a different colour and number and it was decided to issue the new saddle cloth as decided earlier to those horses who are permitted by the Panel of Vets to work and when these horses come to Mumbai they could use their original saddle cloth.

Dr Swaminathan informed that he has already spoken to the Private Veterinarians and Dr S K Kulkarni and Dr K M Nair have agreed to assist in the panel to examine the horses before and after their work.

During further discussions, it was clarified that horses who have not completed a minimum period of four weeks post infection would not be permitted to work under any circumstances.

Dr Swaminathan stated that the blood picture of the non-affected horses were taken and auscultation would be done on Sunday, 23^rd November 2008. He also stated that all those horses not affected will have to undergo examination before trotting and if there was any abnormality found they would not be permitted to trot till they fully recover.

Letter dated 21^st November 2008 from Mr P Shroff and Dr Anil Kumar was tabled and considered. It was decided that disinfection of the Equine Hospital and Equine Pool be undertaken on a regular basis. Mr Shroff suggested that there has to be Standard Operating Procedures for combating all these kinds of diseases. Mr Daga stated that strangles and Equine Influenza did not come via visiting horses and they have come through human beings. He nevertheless stated that norms for visiting horses to be tightened up. He further stated that SOP for strangles was being made. He went on to add that stud farms should have protocol as to how the yearlings would be handled including vaccination programme etc. The other points on the letter were taken note of.

Regarding the test report from NRCE, Mr Daga stated that sera samples from Delhi and Pune on the first 10 samples showed negativity except one sample from each station (Pune and Delhi). He stated that NRCE had not yet given the details of the virus involved in the outbreak of Equine Influenza at RWITC Ltd. On being asked Mr Daga stated that the Subtype-2 virus was involved in the outbreak at Katra in Jammu and Kashmir and therefore it could be safely presumed that the same virus would have caused the outbreak in RWITC Ltd as well as it would be farfetched that another type had come to Pune.

During general discussion it was noted that many people outside felt that though samples have been sent to NRCE, the type of virus has not been declared by NRCE, though a considerable time has elapsed. It was explained that to diagnose the exact strain of the virus culturing and other elaborative procedures were required to be done which takes atleast 3 to 6 months. For example, it was noted that in the case of samples taken from Katra, though the samples were taken sometime in July 2008, the NRCE declared the strain sometime in October 2008. It was therefore felt that there was no unnecessary delay in diagnosing the strain of virus.

It was noted that the NRCE team has visited and drawn second samples on 15^th November 2008 and these samples were sent to NRCE by air. These results were expected to be received around 30^th November 2008.

Mr Shroff stated that the trainers be updated with these kind of diseases. Mr Daga stated that there was a seminar to be held in Hissar on 29^th November 2008 and if any of the trainers were desirous of attending the same, Mr Daga could arrange for the invitation.

With regard to removal of Bichali, the Senior Veterinary Officer stated that the bichali removed from the stables were dumped in the pits in the centre of the Race Course. Now the pits were full in the centre and therefore the dumped bichali would have to be taken out whilst bichali from the stables would continue to be dumped in the centre of the Race Course.

It was decided to hold the next meeting of the Core Group at 11.30 a.m. on Sunday, 30^th November 2008 in Pune.

There being no other points the meeting terminated.

WIRHOA to the RWITC

2008-11-30T01:48:00.001+05:30

WIRHOA has written a series of letters to the RWITC Committee on various issues affecting the Owners in general, the wellbeing of the horses, the EI outbreak, Stables & Syce Quarters' renovation, etc.

In the letters, we have informed the RWITC Committee about the many meetings of the EI Core Group and it's progress. We also informed them that at our recent meeting, all owners were agitated and disappointed with the lack of support and participation from the RWITC Committee members in the EI outbreak. After the resignation of Capt. Jamshed Appoo from the EI Core Group, who did not attend a single meeting, the RWITC Committee has not yet nominated any of it's members to participate in the EI Core Group. We have even at this late stage, asked the RWITC Committee for at least 2 members to join the Core Group. On this matter, we also informed them of the appointment by WIRHOA of Dr. Hasneyn Mirza to assist the Owners and Trainers in the EI outbreak and the nomination of Mr. Shiven Surendranath as a member of the EI Core Group.

Further, we have once again informed the RWITC Committee about the unanimous view of the Owners that all the Indian Classics and the Graded races to be run at Mumbai must not be cancelled. They may however, be postponed to a later suitable date. This representation was made to the RWITC Committee earlier too, but we have failed to get any definite assurance from them on this matter. It remains to be seen if the Owners' voice is heard inside the four walls of the RWITC Committee room.

On the BTF reimbursement issue, while thanking them for the decision for 50% reimbursement and pointing out that the club is showing a profit as seen in the latest Profit & Loss A/c, we have informed them that the Owners at our last meeting unanimously felt that the RWITC Committee must give a 100% reimbursement of not only BTF but also the Oats Surcharge. It was once again pointed out to them that the Owners have stood by the club in difficult times when they willingly agreed to bear the burden of stable rent, water & electricity charges, one time levy for 2 year olds, non-refund of entry fees, etc.

Next, way back in April, WIRHOA Committee had met the RWITC Committee and expressed the need for upgradation/repairs of the stables and syce quarters. At the time, the RWITC Committee had sanctioned a small amount for this but immediately agreed in principle to sanction a sizable amount for this purpose. They had requested WIRHOA to submit concrete plans and estimates for the job. These plans and estimates have been given to the RWITC Committee and we now wait for their plan of action.

Lastly, we have requested the RWITC Committee to organize and encourage Seminars on Equine diseases such as requested by the Indian Association of Equine Practitioners vide their letter dated 16^th July 08 especially as outbreaks of Equine Herpes(more on Equine Herpes to be posted on this site soon) can be expected and serious Equine diseases such as Nipah virus, Hendra virus have already struck in other parts of the world.

WIRHOA Meeting

2008-11-22T15:36:00.001+05:30

Dear Owners,

We have scheduled a meeting for all Owners on Saturday, 22nd November 2008 at 5.00pm in the WIRHOA lounge located at the Members' Enclosure, Mahalaxmi Racecourse, Mumbai.

You are requested to kindly attend.

Minutes of the EI Core Group Meeting held on 15-11-08 in Pune. (Part One)

2008-11-22T15:35:00.001+05:30

MINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE CORE GROUP CONSTITUTED IN CONNECTION WITH THE EQUINE INFLUENZA HELD AT 11.30 A.M. ON SATURDAY, 15^TH NOVEMBER 2008, IN THE VICTORIA ROOM, TURF CLUB HOUSE, PUNE:

Present:-

Mr Shivlal Daga Chairman, Co-ordination Committee, TAI

Diwan Arun Nanda representative of WIRHOA Ltd

Mr NHS Mani - Deputy Secretary, RWITC Ltd

Dr D Swaminathan - Senior Veterinary Officer, RWITC Ltd

Mr. Pesi Shroff - representative of WITA Ltd

Dr Anil Kumar - representative of WITA Ltd

Also present:-

Mr Adil Dajee Mr Robert D'Mellow

Ms Arti Doctor Mr Jayantilal K Gor

Mr Altaf Hussain Mr M K Jadhav

Mr Sangramsingh N Joshi Mr Vijay Kasbekar

Mr C D Katrak Mr Rehanullah Khan

Mr Narendra Lagad Mrs Nina M Lalvani

Mr Sandeep Mangalorkar Mr Nana Raghunath

Mr Imtiaz A Sait Mr Nosher Cama

Mr Asad Siddiqui Mr Bharat Singh

Mr Himmat Singh Mr Subhag Singh

Mr Zadmal Singh Mr S K Sunderji

Mr Vinayak Mr K Ganapathy

At the outset, Mr Arun Nanda welcomed the Trainers to the meeting.

Mr Nanda stated that the Core Group has requested Mr Shivlal Daga to address the trainers in his capacity as Chairman, Co-ordination Committee, Turf Authorities of India and share his knowledge and expertise with the trainers in connection with the Equine Influenza. Mr Nanda also stated that Mr Daga is also on the Board of the National Research Center on Equines, Hissar.

Mr Nanda thereafter narrated the background of the matter. He stated that as suggested by the owners at the meeting which the owners and trainers had with the Committee of the Club on 3^rd November 2008, the Committee of the Club decided to constitute a Core Group in connection with the Equine Influenza, comprising of two members from the Club, WIRHOA Ltd and WITA Ltd. Whilst the Committee of the Club had nominated Capt Jamshed Appoo and Mr Zavaray S Poonawalla to serve on the Core Group, the WIRHOA Ltd nominated Mr Geoffrey Nagpal and himself (Mr Nanda) and WITA Ltd nominated Mr Pesi Shroff and Dr Anil Kumar. He also stated that the WIRHOA Ltd had requested for induction of two additional representatives viz. Mr Suresh Advani and Mr Shiven Surendranath in the Core Group which request was before the Committee of the Club for its consideration. He also stated that subsequently, Capt Jamshed Appoo has resigned from the Core Group which resignation was before the Committee of the Club for its consideration.

Mr Nanda stated that since Mr Zavaray S Poonawalla and Mr Geoffrey Nagpal were out of the country they could not attend this meeting and they were given leave of absence from the meeting. Mr Nanda also stated that Mr Gautam Lala who was also to attend this meeting, as a representative of WIRHOA Ltd, in the absence of Mr Geoffrey Nagpal, was unable to do so.

Mr Nanda further stated that the Core Group met in Mumbai on 11^th November 2008 and Mr Daga was invited to attend the said meeting. The Core Group at the said meeting considered the matter in great detail and went through all the information and data available. The Core Group also heard Mr Daga in detail wherein Mr Daga expressed his opinion based on papers he has studied and advice he has received. The Core Group also heard Dr Swaminathan in detail at the said meeting.

Mr Nanda went on to say that the Core Group having deliberated upon in great detail decided to give an advisory note to the trainers. This advisory note was prepared on the basis of the guidelines for control of Equine Influenza issued by the Ministry of Agriculture, Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries dated 31^st October 2008 and also the input from the Core Group including the opinion of Mr Daga, Dr Swaminathan and Mr Pesi Shroff as also the information received from the other sources. This advisory note was circulated to all the trainers this morning.

Mr Nanda further stated that Dr Swaminathan has given clinical symptoms data for the period 3^rd November 2008 to 15^th November 2008 wherein the figures of fever cases, cough and nasal discharge were rapidly declining. He stated that as per the data prepared by Dr Swaminathan based on the information provided to him by the trainers, there were 124 horses who were unaffected by the Equine Influenza (Annexure 'A').

Before going into the matter further, Mr Nanda requested Mr Daga to address the Trainers.

At the outset, Mr Daga thanked the Core Group for inviting him to address the trainers in this regard. He stated that he was not an expert and that he was only an expert layman. He stated that he had studied a lot of documents and had tried to gather a lot of information and knowledge by interacting with people who had knowledge in this regard. He further stated that he happens to be a Member of the scientific body i.e. the National Research Centre on Equines, Hissar. He went on to add that he would give his opinion in a lay man's terms.

Mr Daga stated that there appears to be a misconception that the Equine Influenza was going on for months and no action was taken in this regard. Equine Influenza cannot and was not a disease which was selective. Whatever may have been the disease/cause for fever cases reported at Race Course and Studs earlier than third week of October 2008 it certainly was not Equine Influenza because there was no cough, and / or nasal discharge and the cases were sporadic. If it was Equine Influenza then all horses would have got it like at present and not selective cases spread over months. Further most of those horses also had got sick again now. He added that any vaccination would have helped only 60% to 70% horses as even some of the vaccinated horses were affected by the Equine Influenza and thus vaccination would have not prevented the epidemic.

Mr Daga added that the NRCE has isolated Equine Influenza virus Sub-type-2 from affected equines at Katra in Jammu and Kashmir and the samples received from the other states were under process. He also mentioned that the immunogenicity of new strain was yet to be studied. The immunogenicity of strains may vary if a variant strain affects the equines in new outbreak. It was expected that Subtype-2 vaccine which was being prepared by NRCE on an experimental basis may give protection to healthy and uninfected horses against this infection in future. Any subtype-2 vaccine available in market may also be helpful.

Mr Daga went on to say that whilst NRCE was developing a vaccine, they would not manufacture the same and they would only give the technical knowhow for preparation of the vaccine.

Addressing the question as to whether any forewarning would have helped, Mr Daga stated that in Europe and USA all the horses are mandatorily vaccinated periodically and yet Equine Influenza is endemic in these countries. He stated that there is no protocol which would give 100% help in future. He added that last time when Influenza occurred there were over 80000 equidae deaths. He stated that in the present outbreak many States were hiding the facts.

Mr Daga stated that as per his information some of the army mules which went to Vaishnodevi Temple with VVIPs were affected by Equine Influenza and this spread to Army Studs, 61 Cavalry and Nicholson Range and so on. It is probable that this disease has come to Pune with the Marwari horses that came for the Youth Games as the Rajasthani syces may have had contact with their brethren working at Pune. However, this is only a surmise. He stated that the movement of army horses including polo horses was totally banned. According to his information, 99% of the disease was spread by people rather than any other way. It can spread through syces, veterinarians, trainers and so on who fail to carry out proper disinfection. He stated that equipment was also carrier of the virus.

Mr Daga further stated that looking at the present scenario, he personally believes that the horses at the Pune Race Course have, by now, got over the problem.

Mr Daga stated that once six to eight weeks from the first sign of Equine Flu is over the affected horses would not be shedders of the virus so as to contaminate non-affected horses.

Mr Daga further added that the position at various stud farms was officially not known though he has personal knowledge about many in and around Pune. He stated that NRCE had not yet given the details of the virus involved in the outbreak of Equine Influenza at RWITC Ltd. He however reiterated that Subtype-2 virus was involved in the outbreak at Katra in Jammu and Kashmir and therefore it could be safely presumed that the same virus would have caused the outbreak in RWITC Ltd as well as it would be farfetched that another type had come to Pune.

Mr Daga stated that the Core Group had met about four days ago and taken into consideration the input from Dr Swaminathan and Mr Pesi Shroff as well and formulated an advisory to the trainers incorporating therein the guidelines given by the Ministry of Agriculture as also taken details from various publications and people who were familiar with the manner in which the situation in Australia was dealt with. The Core Group also decided to explore the possibilities of having vehicles dips in the stable area at the Mumbai and Pune Race Courses. Mr Daga stated that he would take up the matter regarding making dips at Mumbai and Pune at the Committee Meeting to be held on 17^th November 2008. Mr Daga however stated that he and Dr Swaminathan had observed that the horses were reluctant to walk through the dip which was created in the isolation stables at Mumbai Race Course and they always tend to jump over it. Secondly, there may be lack of space in Pune for making dips. He added that the purpose of creating dips was that all vehicles and horses should pass through the dips in order to reduce the chances of infection of any sort.

Mr Daga further stated that the Core Group has also decided that the proposal for sanitation and disinfection suggested by Bio-Corp Ltd as contained in the advisory should be implemented forthwith. He stated that Mr Pesi Shroff, Mr. Vinayak and Mr. Subhag Singh have already been disinfecting their stables and they have found no ill effect on horses as a result of such a disinfection. Mr Daga stated that the stable area at the Mumbai Race Course would also be disinfected. He advised the trainers that all of them should agree and co-operate for disinfection of their stable whereby possible secondary bacterial infection could be prevented to an extent as such disinfection would reduce the bacteria load in the stable area.

Minutes of the EI Core Group Meeting held on 15-11-08 in Pune. (Part Two)

2008-11-22T15:32:00.001+05:30

With regard to starting work for horses at the Pune Race Course, Mr Daga stated that those horses which have not suffered from Equine Influenza anytime after 21^st October 2008 can start trotting for 3 to 5 minutes with immediate effect under the supervision of a Panel of Veterinarians appointed by the Club. Such horses will be checked by the Panel of Veterinarians before they go to trot. After coming back from the trot the Panel of Vets will again check these horses with Stethoscope (not endoscope) especially to ascertain whether the lungs were showing any abnormality. If there is anything wrong with any horse, then such horses would not be permitted to trot. Mr Daga pointed that it may be possible that the stress as a result of trotting may cause some of these horses showing up any latent Equine Influenza or fever. Those horses who have completed four clear weeks of rest after relief of suffering from Equine Influenza can be trotted for 3 to 5 minutes. Thus horses would start work in batches and each batch would be checked for first three days. No horse would be permitted to work without clearance from the Panel of Vets appointed for the purpose. He stated that by 15^th December 2008 or so the movement of non-affected/completely recovered horses to Mumbai could commence.

Mr Daga stated that there was misunderstanding amongst some people that there was a ban on training of horses and movement between Pune and Mumbai. He clarified that there was no such ban imposed by the Government on training and movement between Pune and Mumbai. The only ban imposed was to stop interstate movements in order to stop infection being spread from one State to another. Before concluding Mr Daga stated that if any of the trainers are desirous of contacting him any time for any information/guidance in this regard, they may feel free to do so and he would provide them with whatever information he has in this regard.

Mr Nanda raised the need to start working horses who have either not been affected by Equine Influenza (124 horses) or those who have been infection free for over four weeks at the Pune Race Course. One of the trainers mentioned that there appear to be cases of lung abscess and therefore more time be given to the horses before start working. A discussion took place when Dr Swaminathan mentioned that first of all he would recheck with the trainers concerned to ensure that the supposedly immune 124 horses were not affected by even mild Equine Influenza. He stated that all those horses not affected will have to undergo auscultation before trotting and if there was any abnormality found in the lungs they would have to undergo ultrasonography. If there was anything wrong with any horse, then such horse would not be permitted to trot till he showed improvement. Similarly, after coming back from the trot the horses would have to undergo again auscultation and if there was any abnormality found in the lungs, they would have to undergo ultrasonography. If there was anything wrong found with any horse, then such horse would not be permitted to trot.

Responding to the alleged lung abscess, Dr Swaminathan stated that interstitial Pneumonia is the common sequelae of the Equine Influenza. The damage of the alveoli of the lungs (Fluid patches) are often going to be misdiagnosed as lung abscess. Hence Diagnosis of Lung abscess is to be made by coordinating the findings of the Ultrasonography, Blood picture and clinical condition of the horse all taken together since lung abscess is a life threatening condition and prognosis is grave for that horse racing also.

On a suggestion from Trainers, Mr. Nanda agreed that the blood picture of all those 124 horses (non-infected so far) would be taken by the Club before they start working.

Mr. Nanda clarified that the four weeks rest period mandatory before the start of work of any horses was the minimum period recommended and it was left to individual trainers to decide when to start working their horses dependent on the horses' condition, recovery from the illness, etc.

One of the trainers stated that it was the general feeling amongst various trainers that they do not want to start work and they believe that the 4 weeks should be after the last case reported otherwise there may be cases of relapse.

Mr Nanda reiterated that the 4 weeks period was only a guideline and eventually the trainers would have to take a decision whether to start to work and if so when to start work based on the fitness of each horse. However, no horse would be permitted to work before completion of the 4 weeks recovery period. However, all horses could not wait for four weeks till last case improves. Horses which had not been sick or had got over it fast had already started acting up without exercise and one had to be hospitalized with serious injury.

Mr Daga stated that the horses which were already affected would not get Equine Influenza again for the next six months. However, secondary infection of bacteria could occur as immunity had been lowered. Further it would be for each trainer to come forward and ask the Senior Veterinary Officer of the Club for permission to work based on the condition of his horse.

One of the Trainers suggested that the Club should consider including Private Veterinarians also in the Panel. Mr Nanda agreed with the suggestion and stated that the Core Group would use its good offices in getting the Private Veterinarians to assist the Club's vets in checking horses going to and coming back from work.

One of the Trainers asked why no private veterinarian was called for this meeting. Mr Nanda stated that the Core Group had decided to hold this meeting only with the trainers.

The Senior Veterinary Officer stated that he was interacting with the Private Veterinarians on a regular basis on this matter.

Dr Anil Kumar sought to know whether the working of horses suggested was a trial or progressive measure. Mr Nanda replied that it was suggested as a progressive measure.

Mr Daga reiterated that those horses who start trot would be checked before and after for atleast three days and those who show any problem would not be permitted to trot till improvement.

One of the Trainers suggested that the 124 horses which were not affected be shifted to Mumbai immediately. Some of the other trainers did not agree with the suggestion. Mr Daga mentioned that if even one of these horses after coming to Mumbai showed up with latent Equine Influenza or fever, then there would be a big problem. It was best that any stress induced problem be found out at Pune and sooner rather than later so that long term planning can be undertaken.

A discussion took place regarding the start of the Mumbai Racing Season, at which time Mr Nanda stated that the Core Group has nothing to do with the start of racing. The mandate of the Core Group was to take measures to overcome the present situation and ensure the wellbeing of horses. The commencement of Racing Season at Mumbai was a decision to be taken by the RWITC Ltd. Committee.

A discussion took place after which it was decided that all the non-affected horses would go for trot starting from Monday, 24^th November 2008 after completion of blood tests by the Club. All the trainers agreed to this date. It was made clear to the trainers that what was mentioned in the advisory note are only guidelines to surmount the problem and the final decision of when to work their horses, was the individual decision of each trainer.

The Trainers suggested that those trainers who shift their horses late to Mumbai may be provided the facilities of tracks, etc. at Pune. Mr. Nanda agreed to ensure this was implemented and that track facilities would be made available at Pune.

One of the trainers stated that the forfeits for Indian Classics were on and since the commencement of the Mumbai Racing Season 2008-09 was deferred, no forfeit be debited until a final decision on the commencement of Mumbai Racing Season 2008-09 was taken. It was decided to refer this matter to the Committee of the Club.

Mr. Nanda informed that new saddle cloths with new numbers in a different colour would be given to all horses as they start working in Pune When the horses shift to Mumbai the old saddle number would come back. This is to ensure that only those horses who are cleared by the panel of Vets are allowed to work.

In summary:-

1. Disinfection of the Pune stables to start from 17^th November 2008 until 22^nd November 2008, which would continue as per schedule given by the Senior Veterinary Officer.

2. Horses could start trotting from 24^th November 2008 after the following:-

(a) Trainers to decide when to start working their horses.

(b) Permission of the panel of Vets is necessary before any horses start work. Horses who have not completed a minimum period of four weeks post infection would not be permitted to work. Non-infected horses to be blood tested before they are allowed to work.

(d) Each horse to be checked for first three days of trotting.

(e) Horses to go to work with new saddle cloth in a different colour with new numbers. When the horses come to Mumbai they can go back to their original saddle numbers.

(f) The Club will disinfect Mumbai stables before arrival of horses from Pune.

(g) Dips will be in place at the Mumbai stable area.

There being no other points the meeting terminated.

Minutes of the Meeting of the EI Core Group held on 11-11-08

2008-11-21T17:30:00.001+05:30

MINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE CORE GROUP CONSTITUTED IN CONNECTION WITH THE EQUINE INFLUENZA HELD AT 4.00 P.M. ON TUESDAY, 11^TH NOVEMBER 2008, IN THE MEETING ROOM, ABOVE THE WEIGHING ROOM, RACE COURSE, MUMBAI:

Present:-

Mr Shivlal Daga Chairman, Co-ordination Committee, TAI

Diwan Arun Nanda representative of WIRHOA Ltd

Mr Gautam Lala representative of WIRHOA Ltd (in the absence of Mr. Geoffrey Nagpal)

Mr Pesi Shroff - representative of WITA Ltd

Mr NHS Mani - Deputy Secretary, RWITC Ltd

Dr D Swaminathan - Senior Veterinary Officer, RWITC Ltd

Chairman of the Meeting:- Having been duly proposed and seconded Mr Shivlal Daga took the Chair for the meeting. Mr Daga clarified that he was only chairing this meeting and has not accepted to be on the Core Group.

Leave of absence:- Mr Zavaray S Poonawalla, representative of the RWITC Ltd and Dr Anil Kumar, representative of WITA Ltd were granted leave of absence from the meeting.

Resignation of Capt Jamshed Appoo from the Core Group:- The Core Group noted that Capt Jamshed Appoo who was nominated by the RWITC Ltd to serve on the Core Group has resigned from the Core Group.

Diwan Arun Nanda referred to his e-mail dated 10^th November 2008 addressed to the Secretary of the Club and sought to know whether the resignation of Capt Appoo was effective and if so whether anybody in place of Capt Appoo would be nominated to serve on the Core Group. The Deputy Secretary replied that the letter of resignation of Capt Appoo was being placed before the Committee of the Club at its meeting to be held on 17^th November 2008 and he would be able to revert only thereafter.

It was clarified that Mr Shivlal Daga was attending this meeting as Chairman, Co-ordination Committee, TAI, that too at the request from the representatives of the WIRHOA Ltd on the Core Group. It was further clarified that Mr Gautam Lala was attending this meeting in the absence of Mr Geoffrey Nagpal, who was out of the country.

Mr Daga said that he was unable to visit Pune now and then and as such will not join the core group.

Daily statistics:- Diwan Arun Nanda stated that the Core Group members should receive daily data from Dr Swaminathan as to the total fever case recurring (running for a few days) and new for that day, horses coughing and horses with nasal discharge and secondary infection. Dr Swaminathan stated that he was sending this information by SMS to the Committee, Stewards, etc. every day and since he did not have the mobile numbers of the Core Group Members he could not send it to them. However, he would ensure that this information is sent to the Core Group members also on a daily basis. It was decided that Dr Swaminathan should sent this daily information to the Deputy Secretary, who in turn will forward the same, by email to the Core Group members.

Appointment of a Consultant:- Diwan Arun Nanda sought to know the decision of the Committee on WIRHOA's recommendation to appoint a Consultant Vet viz. Dr Hasneyn Mirza. The Deputy Secretary informed the meeting that the letters of WIRHOA Ltd including the letter containing this request was already forwarded to the Committee of the Club. He further stated that Dr Cyrus S Poonawalla, Chairman of the Club, who is currently in Tokyo had directed him, prior to his departure to Tokyo that, in his absence the Deputy Secretary should inform the other Committee Members to take decisions in this regard and not to withhold any decision until Dr Poonawalla returns. The Deputy Secretary further mentioned that he would contact the Committee Members available and inform the Core Group of the decision in the matter. The Core Group recommended that Dr Mirza be appointed as a Consultant in this regard so that Dr Mirza alongwith Dr Swaminathan could deal with the problem. The Core Group also requested for a decision from the Committee of the Club as early as possible.

Mr Shivlal Daga's email informing all the Clubs about the outbreak of Equine Influenza:- The WIRHOA Ltd representatives stated that they were given to understand that Mr Daga had already sent an e-mail a couple of months ago regarding outbreak of Equine Influenza and they sought to know the reason for the Club not acting on it.

Mr Daga responded that he and Mr Zavaray S Poonawalla were members of the Board of National Research Centre on Equines and that he had attended a meeting of the NRCE sometime in end July 2008. One of the items on the agenda for the said meeting was steps being taken by NRCE teams to combat Equine Influenza which had surfaced in the hill tracts of the north. Accordingly, after the meeting, on 6^th August 2008 he had sent an e-mail addressed to the Secretary-General, Turf Authorities of India, Senior Veterinary Officers and National Horse Breeding Society of India, which email he had forwarded to all the Clubs as well. He stated that his email was on the agenda for the meeting of the Stewards of the Club held on 30^th August 2008 at which meeting consideration of this item was deferred. Mr Daga mentioned that he was not present at the Stewards Meeting held on 30^th August 2008. Subsequently, Dr Swaminathan had approached Mr Daga in this regard when Mr Daga told Dr Swaminathan to make enquiries in this regard with NRCE to ascertain the situation. Dr Swaminathan spoke to the person concerned at NRCE who mentioned to Dr Swaminathan that there was nothing serious and there was nothing to worry about this matter. Therefore the matter was not taken seriously. Mr Daga stated that the only mistake which the Club's office made was his e-mail was not circulated to the WIRHOA Ltd and WITA Ltd.

During further discussions, Mr Daga stated that as per his information some of the army mules which went to Vishnodevi Temple with VVIPs were affected by Equine Influenza and which was spread to Army Studs, 61 Cavalry and Nicholson Range and so on. It is probable that this disease has come to Pune with the horses came for the Youth Games as the Rajasthani syces may have had contact with their brethren working at Pune. However, this is only a surmise .

Mr Daga added that the NRCE has isolated equine influenza virus from affected equines of Katra in Jammu and Kashmir and the samples received from the other states were under process. Sub type-2 virus was involved in this outbreak. He also mentioned that the immunogenicity of new strain was yet to be studied. The immunogenicity of strains may vary if variant strain affects the equines in new outbreak. It is expected that subtype-2 vaccine which is being prepared by NRCE on an experimental basis may give protection to healthy and uninfected horses against this infection. Any subtype-2 vaccine available in market may also be helpful. He also mentioned that as per NRCE there was no report of this disease in August till late September 2008.

Mr Daga stated that though some studs had got Equine Influenza to the best of his knowledge at least Yeravada Stud and Poona Stud had no cases due to strict isolation at Pune. The disease was spread more by people than any other way.

During further discussion it was noted that 75% of the horses which were vaccinated earlier were not affected by Equine Influenza but the others were.

Mr Daga also informed that whatever may have been the disease/cause for fever cases reported at Race Course and Studs earlier than third week of October 2008 it certainly was not Equine Influenza because there was no cough, nasal discharge and the cases were sporadic. If it was Equine Influenza then all horses would have got it like at present and not sporadic cases spread over months.

Documents considered:- The following documents which were placed on the table were considered:

(a) Details submitted by the Senior Veterinary Officer for the period 3^rd November 2008 to 11^th November 2008.

(b) E-mail dated 10^th November 2008 from Capt. Jamshed Appoo.

(d) E-mail dated 10^th November 2008 from Diwan Arun Nanda.

(e) Letter dated 6^th November 2008 from Mr P Shroff and Dr Anil Kumar, Members of the Core Group together with the biosecurity control measures suggested by Bio Corp Ltd.

(f) Letter dated 7^th November 2008 from Dr P K Uppal, Technical Director, Diagnostic Research Laboratories, RWITC forwarding therewith the guidelines for control of Equine Influenza issued by Ministry of Agriculture, Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries vide letter no.F No.53 95/2008 LDT (LH) Dated 31^st October 2008.

Course of Action:- A further discussion took place at which time the Core Group unanimously felt that it is pointless going into the past and that the focus should be on the future course of action to surmount the problem encountered.

On being asked, Mr Daga explained to the other members of the Core Group as to how to proceed as per his opinion based on papers he has studied and advice he has received. He stated that the horses which had not suffered from Equine Influenza anytime after 21^st October 2008 due to vaccination or otherwise can start trotting for 3 minutes with immediate effect under the supervision of a Panel of Veterinarians appointed by the Club. Such horses would be checked by the Panel of Veterinarians before they go to trot. After coming back from the trot the Panel of Vets would again check these horses with Stethoscope (not endoscope) especially to ascertain whether the lungs are showing any abnormality. If there is anything wrong with any horse, then such horses would not be permitted to trot. He stated that it may be possible that the stress as a result of trotting may cause some of these horses showing the latent Equine Influenza or fever and if it happens, such horses should be isolated and kept far away. Those horses who have completed four clear weeks after relief of suffering from Equine Influenza can also be trotted for 3 minutes as stated above. He emphasized that no horse would be permitted to work without clearance from the Panel of Vets appointed for the purpose.

Those horses which are okay after trotting for a week can start shifting to Mumbai. Thus horses will shift in batches. Also horses which now continue to show nasal discharge should be segregated at one far location so they do not pass on secondary infection to the other recovered horses.

Six weeks from the first sign of Equine Flu should be over and the horses would not be shedders of the virus so as to contaminate non-affected horses if movement was started from 2^nd week of December 2008. Mr Daga also stated that he was open to correction by the Senior Veterinary Officer and Mr Shroff as they were hands on persons who dealt with horses on day to day basis.

The Core Group deliberated at length after which the following decisions were taken:-

(a) An advisory note be sent to all trainers and owners based on the guidelines of control of Equine Influenza issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and the start of working of horses as opined by Mr Daga and accepted by the Senior Veterinary Officer & Mr. P. Shroff should also be incorporated therein. Further, the proposal for sanitation and disinfection suggested by Bio-Corp Ltd should also be incorporated in the advisory note.

(b) The proposal for sanitation and disinfection suggested by Bio-Corp Ltd as also as contained in the guidelines of the Ministry should be implemented forthwith. Directions were given that this should be done departmentally and the Estate Department should be asked to do so.

(c) The Senior Veterinary Officer should obtain the horse wise data in a scientific way to ascertain the period of fever, nasal discharge, coughing, etc. of each horse which data would be useful for deciding the start of working horses, etc.

(d) Before the horses shift to Mumbai, the entire stable area at the Mumbai Race Course should be disinfected atleast three times to reduce the bacterial load.

(e) A further advisory be issued before movement of horses pertaining to disinfection of trucks/floats etc. and any other measures to be taken. Mr Daga agreed to attend that meeting of the Core Group.

(f) The possibilities of having vehicle dips in the stable area at the Mumbai and Pune Race Courses should be explored and if possible the same should be done.

Mr Shroff requested Mr Daga to address the trainers in Pune with the procedures and protocol which would be of great help to the trainers. Mr Daga reluctantly agreed to the same. It was therefore decided to hold a meeting of the Core Group and Mr Daga with the trainers at 11.30 a.m. on Saturday, 15^th November 2008 at the Turf Club House, Pune. It was agreed that except Dr Swaminathan no other vets would be present.

There being no other points the meeting terminated.

Equine Influenza Advisory to Owners and Trainers from EI Core Group

2008-11-21T17:28:00.001+05:30

ADVISORY NOTE FROM THE CORE GROUP CONSTITUTED IN REGARD TO EQUINE INFLUENZA

1. General Information:

a) Equine Influenza is an acute highly contagious viral disease of equines (horses, ponies, mules and donkeys), which spreads very fast. The disease is one of the OIE listed disease of equines.

b) The virus belongs to family Orthomyxoviridae and is a RNA virus. The disease occurs by two subtypes H3N8 (A/equi-2) and H7N7 (A/equi-1).

c) Animals suffering from the disease show the clinical signs, which include high raise of temperature, dry hacking cough, watery to mucopurulent discharge and pain in the limbs. Exercise makes the signs more prominent.

d) The disease spreads very fast and within 1-3 days animal starts showing clinical signs of the disease.

e) The morbidity due to the influenza (up to 80% 90%) is very high in equines while mortality is low. Secondary complication like chronic bronchitis, chronic alveolar pulmonary emphysema and asthmatic conditions are noticed where animals are not given adequate rest and therapy.

f) Horses may keep on shedding the virus for 7-10 days. The most common way of spread is through aerosol route.

g) The virus can be spread by contact between infected and susceptible horses, contaminated equipment, susceptible horses coming in contact with premises or vehicles recently occupied by infected horses, which have not been decontaminated and through the persons attending the infected animals.

2. Samples to be Collected:

a) Nasal swabs. One swab from each nostril. A normal 6-inch wooden or plastic handle cotton swab is satisfactory. The swab should be kept immediately in phosphate buffered saline containing 40% glycerol or virus transport medium at 4^¡C. The best time to collect samples is in the initial 24-48 hours of fever. The external nostrils should be wiped with clean swab prior to the collection of samples.

Note: The swabs should be sent to NRCE under cold condition at 4^¡C (on ice) through a messenger immediately after collection.

b) 2-3 ml serum from the same animal should be collected at the time of collection of nasal swabs and sent to the laboratory. After 14 days a second sample of serum (paired serum sample) has to be collected for confirming equine influenza infection.

3. Treatment of the infected animals:

a) Animals showing clinical signs should be given symptomatic treatment.

b) Antibiotic coverage (broad spectrum) may be given to the sick animals to avoid secondary bacterial infections.

c) Animal should be given adequate rest for 3-4 weeks.

d) No vitamins etc should be given during the initial period of 2/3 weeks.

4. Control of Infection:

Quick and timely diagnosis is the best option to control the infection as the disease spreads very rapidly.

A. Detection of Infected animals and their quarantine:

a) The major strategy required for effective control of the disease is quick and timely detection of cases, strict quarantine and controlled movement of equine influenza infected animals within the state as well as outside the state. Interstate movement of the equines should be minimized and / or even stopped completely for six to eight weeks.

b) Immediately isolate the infected animal from the general population as well as from healthy stock within the same premises for 21 to 28 days.

c) Persons attending to the infected animal should not in any way go near the healthy animals. The utensils, water troughs, feed trough,etc should also not get mixed between healthy and infected animals.

d) Prompt diagnosis of equine respiratory disease by testing of nasal swabs and serum samples is essential for immediate control of this disease.

e) If disease is detected soon after introduction and is confined to a limited area, the aim will be to achieve containment and then eradication by quarantine and movement controls, without the need for vaccination.

f) Vaccination strategies for healthy stock, if adopted, can be one of the options only, in addition to quarantine and movement control to limit the rate of spread.

B. Disinfection of premises / hands / utensils

a) The influenza virus is fragile and can be quickly inactivated by exposure to ultraviolet light or sunlight, and by heating.

b) The virus has been shown to persist in water for 14 days at 4^¡C and up to 2 days at 37^¡C.

c) In horse urine it can survive for 5-6 days; and in soil under sunlight at 15^¡C. for 8 hours.

The following steps need to be taken to ensure the control of the spread of infection:

i) Cleaning of Water Tanks.

Step I Scrub with caustic soda (Vim Bar is good). Rinse the tank thoroughly.

Step II Refilling process : Add safeguard

Compound: Iodophore dilution is 1 ml / 10 ltrs (for potable water) which is odorless and palatable.

ii) Stalls and Stable Area:

General Cleaning/dusting of floor/walls/roof/cracks and crevices, if any.

iii) Disinfecting the surfaces

a) Thoroughly clean the surfaces with detergents to remove grease /dirt.

b) Use hot water to clean the cracks and crevices.

c) Phenyl (1%), Chloroxylenol (Dettol) (1%), chlorhexidine (1-2%), formalin (0.2-0.5%) when applied for 20 to 30 minutes are effective in inactivating the virus.

d) Compound: Combination of 3 quarternany Amnonuim compounds out of which two are IInd generation, one is IV generation (i.e. Latest available) plus it has organic Tin derivative. (It is 100 times more potent than Copper Suphate and 1.10^th in adverse effect to Copper Sulphate). This compound too is biodegradable. Recommended Once a day for 15 days/Tapers down to once in two weeks / once in a month and continue monthly spray thereafter.

iv) Personal disinfection

a) Hand dip : Safeguard with higher concentration 8 10 ml/lt (Containers to be provided for dip)

b) The face, hair and skin especially of the exposed parts such as hands should be washed with soap and warm water.

c) Citric acid, a milder acid available as a powder, can be used safely for personnel and clothing decontamination at a concentration of 0.2% w/v.

d) Gum boots, overalls, etc. should be scrubbed with brush, washed with detergent, placed in the disinfectant and dried in the sunlight to ensure inactivation of the virus.

v) Equipments, feeding troughs and vehicles,etc

a) All equipment and track : includes Bit, Bridle, Leading Rope, Brushes, Curry Comb, Hof Pick, Thermometer, Saddles and Saddle pad advised dip, rinse and sun dry.

b) Equipments and inside surfaces of vehicles used for transportation should be cleaned of straw and manure and washed and cleaned before being sprayed with a disinfectant (phenyl / formalin) and left unused in the open as the fumes from these disinfectants are irritant.

c) Wheels of the vehicles should be disinfected through use of wheel baths.

d) Ropes, twitches, etc. should be preferably discarded through burning and in case they are to be used again, then these should be disinfected which can be done by dipping them overnight in disinfectant (Dettol / chlorhexidine).

e) Feed bowls and troughs may similarly be disinfected.

f) Disposal of Horse Manure regularly, also cleaning of Nostrils by disposable paper tissue rolls as and when required.

f) Man movement from one yard to another has to be strictly curtailed.

g) Stable staff should be educated on control and hygiene.

h) Water the premises to keep the stable area absolutely dust free, also no smoking, fogging and avoid burning the waste and garbage to ensure pollution free surroundings.

5) Start working horses ( specific for Pune Race Course)

Those horses which have not suffered from Equine Influenza anytime after 21^st October 2008 can start trotting for 3 minutes with immediate effect under the supervision of a Panel of Veterinarians appointed by the Club. Such horses will be checked by the Panel of Veterinarians before they go to trot. After coming back from the trot the Panel of Vets will again check these horses with Stethoscope (not endoscope) especially to ascertain whether the lungs are showing any abnormality. If there is anything wrong with any horse, then such horses would not be permitted to trot.

Note:- It may be possible that the stress as a result of trotting may cause some of these horses showing the latent Equine Influenza or fever and if it happens, such horses should be isolated and kept far away.

Those horses who have completed four clear weeks after relief of suffering from Equine Influenza can be trotted for 3 minutes as stated in 5 (a) above.

No horse would be permitted to work without clearance from the Panel of Vets appointed for the purpose.

6) Public Awareness.

a) Awareness in the horse industry is a must to gain cooperation and build confidence in controlling the disease.

b) All state Animal Husbandry Departments, NGO's working for the welfare of the equines and organized industry should be fully aware about the disease, measures to be taken to control the disease. NRCE has already informed the Directors of the concerned states and Army regarding the outbreak in their respective states.

c) Special care has to be taken to inform the individual horse owners in rural areas for the signs of the disease and that they should report to local veterinarian about the disease and the measures to be taken for control. This information can be given through pamphlets and handouts.

d) Support from local media and public relations campaign should be ensured for creating adequate awareness about the disease.

7. Advice to the owners

a) Owners should monitor the health of horses in the premises twice daily by observing for clinical signs such as coughing, nasal discharge, fever, if any.

b) Any suspected cases should be clearly identified, isolated, and specific samples as mentioned earlier should be sent to the laboratory.

c) The utensils, water troughs, feed troughs etc should not be allowed to get mixed between healthy and infected animals.

d) Limit people and vehicle access to the premises where horses are kept. Only essential visitors should be given the access. Visitors need to be kept away from horses.

e) Vehicles should be kept away from the horses and preferably left outside the gate.

Equine Influenza Information - Part Four

2008-11-17T17:07:00.002+05:30

Once a horse has contracted EI, when will the horse be ready to return to work?
This is an extremely important question.

The following information has been prepared by Dr Craig Suann, from Racing NSW.

“Trainers are reminded about the importance of ensuring that horses that have previously contracted Equine Influenza (EI) have undergone the appropriate convalescence period and veterinary assessment before being returned to work. Because of the damage to the lining of the airways in the respiratory tract caused by the EI virus, there then must be a prolonged period of rest and a slow return to work before full training can resume. This is to optimise the short and long term health and welfare of the affected horses, and to reduce the possibility of flu related secondary infections and other complications.

The Ausvetplan and standard veterinary texts dealing with Equine Influenza recommend one month’s rest after the last febrile (high temperature) episode during the course of the illness.

During this rest period after the fever has disappeared, horses should be hand walked only, or walked under saddle.

However, if a horse has an elevated temperature for greater than 4 days in the initial phase of the disease, this one month’s period of rest should be extended further (one extra week’s rest for every extra febrile day).

Rest reduces the opportunity for secondary infection and hastens the healing of the respiratory tract mucosa and therefore recovery and return to fitness. At the end of the minimum rest period, it is recommended that the horse undergo a veterinary clinical examination, including a blood test which will give the results of the hemogram and fibrinogen levels.

Endoscopic examination of the lower respiratory tract will also assist in assessing the horse’s readiness to commence slow work on the track.

Following this initial rest period of at least one months, affected horses can then resume slow work (trotting and cantering) for at least another month before they can commence faster work.

One of the complications arising from return to fast work too quickly is myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) which can further prolong recovery and slow the return to normal athletic condition. Another possible complication is an increased tendency for the occurrence of exercise induced pulmonary haemorrhage (“Bleeding”). The road to recovery will vary between horses, depending on the intensity and duration of the initial symptoms, and whether or not complications such as secondary bacterial infections occur. This will require careful monitoring of your horses as they progress through their training program”.

Equine Influenza Update. Condition of horses in Pune as on 14th November 2008 as informed by the Club's Sr. V.O.

2008-11-14T16:27:00.000+05:30

Approximately,

2 Horses with temperature more than 102 degrees.

2 Horses with temperature between 101-102 degrees.

109 Horses with Cough.

82 Nasal discharge.

Equine Influenza Information - Part Three - Guidelines for control of equine Influenza issued by Ministry of Agriculture, Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries.

2008-11-12T16:49:00.000+05:30

Guidelines for control of equine Influenza issued by Ministry of Agriculture, Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries vide letter no. F.No.53 95/2008 LDT (LH) dated 31-10-08, addressed to RWITC Ltd., signed by Prof. P.K.Uppal, received on 7-11-08.

GUIDELINES FOR CONTROL OF EQUINE INFLUENZA

1. General Information.

a) Equine Influenza is an acute highly contagious viral disease of equines (horses, ponies, mules and donkeys), which spreads very fast. The disease is one of the OIE listed disease of equines.

b) The virus belongs to family Orthomyxoviridae and is a RNA virus. The disease occurs by two subtypes H3N8 (Alequi-2) and H7N7 (Alequi-1).

d) The disease spreads very fast and within 1-3 days animal starts showing clinical signs of the disease.

e) The morbidity due to the influenza (up to 80- 90%) is very high in equines while mortality is low. Secondary complication like chronic bronchitis, chronic alveolar pulmonary emphysema and asthmatic conditions are noticed where animals are not given adequate rest and therapy.

f) Horses may keep on shedding the virus for 7- 10 days. The most common way of spread is through aerosol route.

2. Samples to be Collected:

a) Nasal swabs. One swab from each nostril. A normal 6-inch wooden or plastic handle cotton swab is satisfactory. The swab should be kept immediately in phosphate buffered saline containing 40% glycerol or virus transport medium at 4°C. The 'best time to collect samples is in the initial 24-48 hours of fever. The external nostrils. should be wiped with clean swab prior to the collection of samples. Note: The swabs should be sent to NRCE under cold condition at 4°C (on ice) through a messenger immediately after collection.

3. Treatment of the infected animals:

a) Animals showing clinical signs should be given symptomatic treatment.

b) Antibiotic coverage (broad spectrum) should be given to the sick animals to avoid secondary bacterial infections.

c) Animal should be given adequate rest for 3-4 weeks.

4. Control of infection:

Quick and timely diagnosis is the best option to control the infection as the disease spreads very rapidly.

A. Detection of infected animals and their Quarantine

b) Immediately isolate the infected animal from the general population as well as from healthy stock with in the same premises for .21 to 28 days.

c) Persons attending to the infected animal should not in any way go near the healthy animals. The utensils, water troughs, feed etc. should also not get mixed between healthy and infected animals.

d) Prompt diagnosis of equine respiratory diseases by testing of nasal swabs and serum samples is essential for immediate control of this disease.

f) Vaccination strategies for healthy stock, if adopted, can be one of the options only, in addition to quarantine and movement control to limit the rate of spread.

B. Disinfection of premises/hands/utensils.

a) The influenza virus is fragile and can be quickly inactivated by exposure to ultraviolet light or sunlight, and by heating.

b) The virus has been shown to persist in water for 14 days at 4°C and up to 2 days at 37°C.

c) In horse urine it can survive for 5-6 days; and in soil under sunlight at 15°C for 8 hours.

The following steps need to be taken to ensure the control of the spread of infection:

i) Disinfecting the surfaces

a) Thoroughly clean the surfaces with detergents to remove grease/dirt.

b) Use hot water to clean the cracks and crevices.

c) Phenyl (1%), Chloroxylenol (Dettol) (1%), chlorhexidine (1-2%), formalin (0.2-0.5%) when applied for 20 to 30 minutes are effective in inactivating the virus.

ii) Personal disinfection.

a) The face, hair and skin especially of the exposed parts such as hands should be washed with soap and warm water.

b) Citric acid, a milder acid available as a powder, can be used safely for personnel and clothing decontamination at a concentration of 0.2% w/v.

c) Gum boots, overalls etc. should be scrubbed with brush, washed with detergent, placed in the disinfectant and dried in the sunlight to ensure inactivation of the virus.

iii) Equipments, feeding troughs and vehicles.

a) Equipments and inside surfaces of vehicles used for transportation should be cleaned of straw and manure and washed and cleaned before being sprayed with a disinfectant (phenyl/formalin) and left unused in the open as the fumes from these disinfectants are irritant

b) Wheels of the vehicles should be disinfected through use of wheel baths.

c) Ropes, twitches etc should be preferably discarded through burning and in case they are to be used again, then these should be disinfected which can be done by dipping them overnight in disinfectant (Dettol/chlorhexidine).

d) Feed bowls and troughs may similarly be disinfected.

5. Public Awareness

a) Awareness in the horse industry is a must to gain cooperation and build confidence in controlling the disease.

b) All state Animal Husbandry Departments, NGOs working for the welfare of the equines and organized industry should be fully aware about the disease, measures to be taken to control the disease. NRCE has already informed Directors of the concerned states and Army regarding the outbreak in their respective states.

c) Special care has to be taken to inform the individual horse owners in rural areas for the signs of the disease and that they should report to local vets about the disease and the measures to be taken for control. This information can be given through pamphlets and handouts.

d) Support from local media and public relations campaign should be ensured for creating adequate awareness about the disease.

6. Advice to the owners

a) Owners should monitor the health of horses in the premises twice daily by observing for clinical signs such as coughing, nasal discharge, fever, if any.

b) Any suspected cases should be clearly identified, isolated and specific samples as mentioned earlier should be sent to the laboratory.

c) The utensils, water troughs, feed, etc. should not be allowed to get mixed between healthy and infected animals.

d) Limit people and vehicle access to the premises where horses are kept. Only essential visitors should be given the access. Visitors need to be kept away from horses.

e) Vehicles should be kept away from horses and preferably left outside the gate.

EI Core Group Meeting - Plan of Action (11-11-08)

2008-11-12T01:50:00.001+05:30

The Core Group formed by the RWITC and WIRHOA met today (11-11-08). The members present were Mr. Arun Nanda, Mr. Gautam Lala (proxying for Mr. Geoffrey Nagpal), Mr. Pesi Shroff, Dr. Swaminathan and Mr Shivlal Daga who was invited by the Core Group in his capacity as Chairman of Disease Control of TAI.

The various aspects of EI, the horses, their rehab, etc. were discussed.

The Core Group will be issuing an official advisory to all trainers and owners within the next two days giving a detailed course of action on how to resume work, stable disinfection, etc. Also, it was decided to have the next Core Group meeting in Pune on Saturday, 15th November, to visit a few stables and get hands on information and also meet and address all the trainers.

The advisory will be posted on this site within the next two days and circulated to all owners and trainers.

Meanwhile, we are pleased to inform you that the fever and cough cases have reduced to a little over 100 horses as of today.

Please do check back for more information in the next couple of days.

WIRHOA meeting - Impact of Equine Influenza (6th November 2008)

2008-11-08T18:57:00.001+05:30

The following decisions were unanimously taken at the meeting at our meeting held on 6th November 2008 and the RWITC has been informed of the same.

On the Equine Influenza Situation.

We have asked RWITC Ltd. to officially appoint the International expert, Dr. Patricia Ellis for consultation with opinions and plan-of-action/treatment given in writing. As Dr. Husnyn Mirza has already been appointed by RCTC and is in contact with Dr. Ellis, we would like him to assist RWITC and Owners to deal with the problem.

A core group was formed at the RWITC Committee's last meeting last week comprising of the Club's Sr. Vet, Mr. Z. Poonawalla, Capt. J. Appoo, Diwan Arun Nanda, Mr. G. Nagpal, Trainers Pesi Shroff and Anil Kumar. We have asked to add two more members tot his core group namely Mr. S. Surendranath and Mr. S. Advani.

We have also asked for a daily report from Dr. Swaminathan(The Club's Sr.Vet) to members of the core group about incidence of fever and secondary infection. The core group will then make a weekly report and circulate to all the Owners on a weekly basis keeping them posted on the situation.

Further we have asked RWITC Ltd. to let us know as to when was the RWITC aware of this problem? And, even after Mr. Daga's letter regarding Equine Influenza, why the Indian Association of Equine Practitioners letter dated 16^th July '08 wanting to organize a seminar in case of disease outbreaks such as Equine Influenza, including diagnosis, treatment and containment of the disease was not seriously taken up. We have also informed them that our members had serious misgivings on the conduct of the last 2 days of racing in Pune when the outbreak of Equine Influenza was rampant and we were advised to shift to Mumbai which is exactly the opposite of the treatment recommended for Equine Influenza, which requires complete rest for 4 weeks after normal temperature. Further, we wish to know when did Hissar Lab confirm the Equine Influenza outbreak and why is it taking so long to confirm the strain so that a vaccine can be made?

On the Racing front.

It was unanimously decided that even though racing would start in the 1st week of February 2009, we did not want any of the Classics and Graded races to be cancelled. However these may be postponed to a suitable later date depending on the situation. RWITC has been informed of our unanimous opinion on the subject and has been asked to consult WIRHOA before finalising any changes in the Prospectus.

On the Economic impact.

It was also unanimously decided to ask RWITC Ltd. to bear the BTF, Oats Surcharge, Water & Electricity Charges and Medical Costs from November till such time that racing resumes in Western India.We also pointed out that during this period RWITC's income from marriages(lawns), off-course betting, etc. will continue and further, they will be saving on the stake money payouts for this duration. Lastly, we pointed out that RWITC is not a dividend paying company and as such it would be fine for the Club to simply breakeven rather than showing a profit for the year and instead support the Owners who have in the past always stood by the Club in diffcult times.

Equine Influenza Information - Part Two

2008-11-08T15:52:00.001+05:30

On 2 September 2007, the then Prime Minister and the then Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry announced that there would be a full, independent inquiry into the outbreak of equine influenza in Australia in August of 2007.

The Quarantine Amendment (Commission of Inquiry) Act 2007, which received Royal Assent on 24 September 2007, amended the Quarantine Act 1908 to provide for the appointment of a person to conduct an inquiry into the outbreak of equine influenza. On 25 September 2007, the Hon Mr Ian Callinan AC was appointed Commissioner by the then Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry under section 66AY of the Quarantine Act 1908.

Section 66AZE of the Quarantine Act 1908 provides that most of the provisions of the Royal Commissions Act 1902 applied to the Inquiry and the Commissioner as if the Inquiry were a Royal Commission.

The Commissioner presented his report to the Hon. Tony Burke MP, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, and the Minister released the report on 12 June 2008.

The report can be found at the following link.

http://www.equineinfluenzainquiry.gov.au/eiiexhibits/REP.0001.001.0001.pdf