Great Epizootic of 1872

Feb 19, 2025

Dive into the Great Epizootic of 1872, a devastating horse flu that wreaked havoc across North America and the Caribbean. Explore its origins, rapid spread through transport networks, and the chaos it caused in cities reliant on horses for daily life. Discover how this crisis spurred advancements in veterinary medicine and public health, alongside the amusing contradictions of dubious treatments. Plus, enjoy a heartwarming family recipe that transitions from the seriousness of animal health to the joys of baking!

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INSIGHT

History of Horse Flu

Flu-like epidemics in horses have been documented for over 500 years.
Identifying specific pathogens before the late 19th century was impossible, making it difficult to determine the cause of past outbreaks.

INSIGHT

Influenza A

Equine influenza, caused by the influenza A virus, is the likely culprit behind the Great Epizootic of 1872.
Different strains of influenza A can cause illnesses in various species, sometimes occurring simultaneously.

ANECDOTE

Veterinary Medicine in 1872

The epizootic occurred during the early stages of veterinary education in North America.
Many vets providing advice had emigrated from Europe, where veterinary colleges were more established.

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The epizootic of 1872 was a massive outbreak of a flulike illness primarily among horses in North America, Central America, and some islands in the Caribbean.

Research:

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