Core Vaccines Recommended for Horses

Core vaccines

Tetanus

A bacterial infection that causes muscle tightening

First at 6 months, then two more, at intervals of 3–6 weeks; yearly booster

Encephalomyelitis

Viral infections from mosquitoes that affect the nervous system

Same schedule as for tetanus

Equine viral rhinopneumonitis

A contagious viral respiratory infection

Same initial schedule as for tetanus; booster every 6 months

Influenza

A contagious viral respiratory infection

First at 6–9 months, then at 11 months; booster every 6–12 months

Rabies

A deadly viral disease

First at 6 months, then two more, at 7 months and 1 year; yearly booster

West Nile virus

A viral infection from mosquitoes

First at 3–4 months, then 1 month later; booster every 4–6 months

Other vaccines, important in certain geographical regions

Potomac horse fever

A bacterial disease that causes fever, decreased activity, diarrhea, and occasionally colic or laminitis (founder); vaccination recommended in areas where disease is common

First at 5–6 months, then 4 weeks later; booster at 12 months and yearly after that

Rotavirus

A viral diarrheal disease; vaccination usually restricted to farms with a recurring problem

Pregnant mares receive a three-dose series of vaccinations before foaling; foals are protected through colostrum (first milk they receive in nursing from the mare)

Strangles

A bacterial infection of the throat; vaccination usually restricted to farms with a recurring problem

First at 4–6 months, then two more, at 4-week intervals; booster at 12 months and yearly after that