SINGAPORE,  28 August 2007

Singapore Turf Club has suspended importation of horses from Australia and Japan with immediate effect.

The Club said in a statement today that the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) has informed the Club that an outbreak of equine influenza has been confirmed in Australia. This follows an earlier outbreak of equine influenza in Japan.

“Due to the highly contagious nature of the disease, the Club in consultation with AVA has decided to immediately suspend importation of horses from Australia and Japan. This suspension will be reviewed weekly.

“The Club will work closely with the AVA to monitor the situation and will keep you informed of any changes,” the statement concluded.