Although there is no vaccine to help prevent infection from the EIA virus, owners can reduce the risk of exposure to their animals by utilizing the following guidelines:

1. Reduce flies in barns or stables and pastures as much as possible.

2. Avoid exposing your animal to sick animals.

3. Use a new, sterile needle on each animal. The simple rule of thumb is "One horse, one needle."

4. Clean and sterilize all instruments thoroughly after each use. This will prevent the spread of disease by knives, needles, and dental and surgical equipment. The virus is easily inactivated by common detergent-containing disinfectants.

5. Do not share saddles, bridles and other pieces of equipment between any animals with open or bleeding wounds or sores.

6. Do not breed mares or stallions that you suspect or know are infected.

7. Observe your animal daily. At the first appearance of any of the disease signs -- fever, depression, or loss of appetite -- isolate the sick animal and call your veterinarian.

8. Purchase animals only after they have been tested and found to be free of any evidence of disease. Insist on being furnished with a copy of the test report.

9. Only participate in events (show, sale, racetrack, trail ride, etc.) that require prior testing for all animals.

10. Request that all other event managers/promoters require proof of negative EIA status.

11. Establish a routine EIA testing schedule for your equidae with your private veterinarian.