NSW deputy chief veterinary officer Steve Dunn urged horse owners who had not been contacted by the Dubbo vaccination centre to phone 6881 6074 to arrange an appointment.

“We have already put out a reminder to those who are due for their second round vaccination, however we are also very keen to hear from horse owners that have not yet had their horses vaccinated at all,” Mr Dunn said.

“The effectiveness of the EI vaccine will be improved greatly if we can vaccinate as many horses as possible in Dubbo’s red zone and buffer zone area.

“It’s vitally important horses receive both rounds of shots through this vaccination program.”

Mr Dunn said about 2193 horses in the Dubbo buffer and red zone had received the first round of vaccination, with the second round now under way.

“However, it is not too late for horse owners that have not yet registered to get their horses vaccinated, as long as we hear from them by Tuesday of this week.

“Continued good co-operation from horse owners by obeying movement restrictions and following the correct disinfection procedures, will assist us to make Dubbo EI free.

“Clearance testing of horses has already begun so we can accurately monitor the steady decline of horse flu at Dubbo.”