Horse owners, yard managers and equestrian professionals are being encouraged to get involved in this year’s Strangles Awareness Week (SAW), returning from 4 to 10 May 2026.
The annual campaign shines a spotlight on Strangles, the most commonly diagnosed infectious disease in horses worldwide, and highlights practical steps to prevent and manage outbreaks. This year, SAW is being officially run across multiple countries, including Sweden, Spain, the Netherlands, Finland and Norway, reflecting its growing international impact.
At the heart of the campaign is the “BEST” approach to disease prevention:
- Boost immunity with vaccination
- Engage with trusted information
- Separate unfamiliar horses
- Temp check routinely
Organisers are urging horse and yard owners to sign up as free SAW Ambassadors, helping to spread key messages across the equestrian community. Those who register will receive ready-to-use social media graphics, films, campaign updates and a digital Ambassador badge.
The call to action comes as concern grows around rising case numbers. Lab-reported cases increased by 77% in 2025, with 477 recorded compared to 270 in 2024, and dozens of cases already confirmed early in 2026. Despite this, awareness gaps remain, with many horse owners still unaware of vaccination options or lacking quarantine protocols for new arrivals.
Strangles can have serious consequences, with symptoms ranging from fever and nasal discharge to painful abscesses and, in severe cases, life-threatening complications. However, campaign leaders emphasise that with the right knowledge and preventative measures, the risk and impact of outbreaks can be significantly reduced.
By becoming an Ambassador and supporting Strangles Awareness Week, the equestrian community is being encouraged to work together to protect horse health, safeguard yards and reduce the spread of disease. Follow this link to find out more about becoming an Ambassador.
FREE Strangles Webinar
Looking beyond Strangles
As part of Strangles Awareness Week, a lunchtime webinar next Tuesday (5th May 2026) will explore how Strangles compares to the emerging threat of West Nile virus. Hosted by Nic and presented by Richard Newton, the session will highlight why strong biosecurity is essential not just for known diseases, but also for those on the horizon.
This is a timely opportunity to broaden understanding, stay informed, and ensure yards are prepared for both current and future risks. Register now with this booking link and use the campaign graphics to help spread the word.
