Abstract:
A study of the prevalence of African horse sickness in horses was conducted, using records
from two private equine practices in Harare for the period 1998–2004. Results indicated a
higher prevalence of the disease in horses in Zimbabwe in the late rainy season (March – May).
Age of the horse was found to be a significant risk factor, with foals or yearlings appearing
to be 1.80 times more likely to contract the disease compared with horses older than two
years. The case fatality rate in foals or yearlings was also higher than in older age groups, but
this difference was not significant. The vaccination status was an important risk factor, with
vaccinated horses 0.12 times less likely to die from the disease compared with unvaccinated
horses. Young, unvaccinated horses therefore seem to be the most susceptible to the disease
and have greater chances of fatality. This study highlights the importance of adequately
protecting horses against African horse sickness by providing immunisation through
vaccination and discusses the need to review current vaccination strategies being practiced in
Zimbabwe.
