KEY POINTS:
Sydney - Three more horses have tested positive to horse flu, this time at a property in NSW's central west.
The affected horses were on a property north-west of Dubbo, and a new "Restricted Area" (RA) quarantine zone had been imposed, NSW deputy chief veterinary officer Steve Dunn said today.
"The horses showed signs of influenza and follow-up tests confirmed the virus," Mr Dunn said in a statement.
"The horses had attended a campdrafting event at Narrabri on August 25, and were closely monitored based on their link to that event."
The quarantine zone extends for a 10km radius around the property and is the 20th restricted area to be declared in NSW.
The quarantine zones already encompass almost 400 infected properties across the state, which contain almost 3,500 horses which either have or are likely to contract the uncontained equine influenza (EI) virus.
Mr Dunn said the spread of the disease would only be halted by isolating the infected animals and observing the statewide ban on moving horses and equipment, such as trucks and saddles.
People who live inside the restricted areas are also urged not to expose other nearby properties by avoiding unnecessary trips.
"People movements between properties should only occur if absolutely necessary, and with strict hygiene, as the virus can be carried on people, clothes and equipment," Mr Dunn said.
- AAP
