Horse shows across the UK are increasing passport and vaccination checks in response to rising equine flu cases. Organizers say non-compliant horses will be turned away.
In the first week of June, the equine infectious disease surveillance team at Cambridge Vet School confirmed 15 outbreaks across 13 regions. A total of 95 outbreaks have been recorded in 2026, with 82 confirmed since 20 April. Jenna Payne, chief executive of the Association of Show and Agricultural Organisations, described strict checks at Devon County Show in May. Teams turned away around 15 horseboxes on the first day for passport mismatches and other issues. Other events including Royal Cornwall Show and Royal Bath & West also enforced checks on arrival or at number collection. British Eventing has ramped up its inspections and warned that horses without correct vaccinations will be sent home. Lucy Grieve of the British Equestrian Veterinary Association said thorough checks are essential for equine health but noted the need for a national digital identification system to improve the process.