Progress made in solving the grass sickness puzzle

Vets and scientists have discussed the challenges posed by the disease and how to tackle it in the future

- BECKY MURRAY

VETS, researchers, and fundraisers have gathered to discuss “solving the equine grass sickness [EGS] puzzle”, agreeing that collaboration and awareness are the way forward.

These were key themes at the Equine Grass Sickness Fund conference (29 March).

Chris Proudman of the Surrey Vet School presented on the “power of partnerships” and said working with different specialists could help tackle the disease. He said pathologists, immunologists and microbiologists can all play a role, as well as sociologists and psychologists, who could help understand how human behaviour might affect incidence of grass sickness.

“There are plenty of people that could potentially help us in understanding the disease and effective preventative strategies,” he said.

During a panel discussion, vets tackled some challenges faced in dealing with EGS and the need for more awareness.

John Keen, of the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, said it is very hard to tell the difference between an acute grass sickness case and an acute presentation of colic.