Surra

If notifiable disease is suspected, contact DAERA on 0300 200 7840 or your local DAERA Direct Regional Office. Failure to do so is an offence

Current Situation

There has never been an outbreak of Surra in Northern Ireland.

Where is this disease found?

It is found in North Africa, Asia and Central and South America.

Clinical signs

The clinical signs can vary according to the strain and infected species.

Clinical signs include:

• anaemia
• weight loss
• fever
• abortion
• leg swelling
• chronic wasting in cattle
• nervous signs - common in horses and can resemble rabies in dogs

In camels and horses, it is often fatal and progresses quickly. In buffalo, cattle, llama and dogs it can also be fatal. But these species tend to develop milder clinical signs.

What is the public health risk associated with this disease?

Surra is not considered a public health risk. It does not affect humans.

How is the disease transmitted?

Surra is spread between animals by biting flies acting as mechanical vectors. Carnivores can also become infected by eating infected meat.

Prevention

Measures that you can take to protect your animals:

• Fully comply with legislation when importing animals. 

• Isolate imported animals. 

• Monitor your animals carefully. If your animals are unwell, contact your private veterinary practitioner.

• Good biosecurity is essential to prevent Surra entering into Northern Ireland. You can help by practising good Biosecurity measures.

In the event of an outbreak further information will be provided on the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs website at:

Diseases that affect equines | Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs

Controlling Surra if Suspected or Confirmed in Northern Ireland

In the event of a disease notification of Surra in Northern Ireland, DAERA will restrict movement of horses under the following legislation, the Movement of Animals (Restrictions) Order (NI) 2004.

Anyone suspecting the presence of the disease, must immediately contact their Private Veterinary Practitioner (PVP) or inform their DAERA Direct Regional Office.

Single Lifetime Identification Document for Equines (“Horse Passports”)

All equines in Northern Ireland need to have a Single Lifetime Identification Document (commonly referred to as a “horse passport”) to identify them.

Further information on how to obtain a horse passport.

More useful links 

Horse Illnesses: Equine Disease Prevention | The British Horse Society

International-Codes-of-Practice-2025_ITBA.pdf

HBLB International Codes of Practice | Home

Surra (T. evansi) - WOAH - World Organisation for Animal Health