Equine vaccination recommendations depend on:

• The local prevalence and severity of diseases
• The horse's age and purpose
• Pregnancy status
• Cost
• Level of protection provided by vaccines
• Potential side effects, including swelling, soreness, abscessation, and allergic reactions.

For a deeper understanding, consult the article Vaccines: an Overview, which discusses vaccine mechanisms, available vaccines, and links to disease-specific information. This overview will help guide your vaccination choices.

This article provides recommendations and schedules for vaccinations based on age, use, and pregnancy status.

Disease prevention in horses extends beyond vaccinations. Not all vaccines guarantee 100% immunity; some only mitigate disease severity. Effective management practices are vital for disease prevention:

• Ensure a clean, calm, and stable environment. Horses should be grouped with peers of similar age, size, and reproductive status for optimal health.
• Provide fresh, high-quality feed and forage.
• Avoid exposure to horses showing signs of infectious diseases or those with unknown health status. Communal water troughs are common infection points for respiratory diseases.
• Prevent standing water to reduce mosquito and insect breeding.
• Secure feed to deter pests.
• Quarantine new horses for at least 3 weeks before introducing them to the herd.
• Avoid tetanus antitoxin in horses with a good tetanus vaccination history; use the toxoid instead.