Key Points Details Dressing Your Horse Grooming and Presentation: Ensure your horse is immaculately clean. Pay attention to grooming details like manes, tails, and hooves. Equipment: Use a well-fitting bridle and lead, appropriate to class requirements. Mane and Tail: Style according to class and breed standards for enhanced presentation. Training and Practice Practice Trotting: Ensure your horse trots smoothly on command. Standing Square: Regular practice for the horse to stand square for judging. Dressing Yourself Attire for Handlers: Maintain a professional, polished look that complements your horse. Clothing Choices: Button-up shirts, dark pants, sturdy shoes, and appropriate headwear. Layering: Use breathable layers in cold weather without compromising mobility. Accessories Gloves: Black leather gloves for a professional look. Jewelry: Minimal and tasteful to keep focus on the horse. Additional Tips for Success Preparation and Etiquette: Arrive early, practice your routine, and demonstrate courteous behavior. Understanding the Class: Be informed of the unique rules and attire requirements for each class. Conclusion Prepare both yourself and your horse to highlight the horse's best attributes while maintaining professionalism and respect. For more gear, visit Just Horse Riders. What You Need to Know About Dressing Your Horse and Yourself for a Successful In-Hand ShowIn-hand showing is a showcase of equestrian excellence, where the spotlight is firmly fixed on the horse's conformation and elegance, with the handler complementing rather than overshadowing. Whether you are a seasoned competitor or stepping into the ring for the first time, dressing both yourself and your horse appropriately plays a crucial role in your overall presentation. Let's delve into how to prepare for this intricate dance of presentation and precision.Dressing Your HorseGrooming and PresentationCleanliness is a sign of respect for the show and a key to making a great impression. Begin with a thorough grooming session ensuring your horse is immaculately clean. Pay attention to every detail, from the lush manes and tails to sparkling hooves [source]. This level of care not only pleases the eye but reflects professionalism.EquipmentWhen it comes to selecting equipment, use a well-fitting bridle and lead. Depending on your class, a reinless bridle or simple white rope halter might be more appropriate. Always verify rules with the show organizers to avoid any missteps [source].Mane and TailDeciding whether to braid or leave your horse's mane and tail free should be influenced by class and breed standards. Some breeds have traditional or required styles, which, when adhered to, enhance the presentation significantly [source].Training and PracticePractice TrottingEnsure your horse trots smoothly and calmly on command, as this is crucial for the movement phase of the show. Consistent training and practice can enhance this skill [source].Standing SquareAnother essential is teaching your horse to stand square, allowing the judge to properly assess its conformation. Practice this stance regularly until it becomes second nature to your horse [source].Dressing YourselfAttire for HandlersA professional appearance is necessary to honor the event and convey your respect to the judges. Opt for a look that is polished yet understated to ensure you complement your horse rather than detract from it [source].Clothing Choices Tops: Select a button-up or polo shirt. Avoid flashy prints or bright colors. Bottoms: Dark-colored pants or khakis are appropriate, avoiding white due to its transparency and difficulty to maintain [source]. Shoes: Sturdy shoes suitable for walking and running are crucial, such as paddock boots [Horse Riding Boot Collection]. Headwear: A well-fitting hat adds a professional touch, provided it doesn't obscure your view [source].Layering for ComfortCold weather shows require strategic layeringcloak yourself in breathable base layers topped with a fleece-lined jacket to beat the chill without compromising mobility [source].Accessories Gloves: Black leather gloves offer both practicality and an elevated aesthetic. Explore different options in our Horse Riding Gloves Collection. Jewelry: Keep accessories minimal and tasteful to maintain the focus on your horse [source].Additional Tips for SuccessPreparation and EtiquetteArriving early affords you the luxury of time to prepare and settle your horse before the competition. Parking your trailer in a tranquil spot can reduce distractions and help achieve tranquility [source]. Etiquette is another vital componentgreetings and courteous behavior towards judges can help build a positive impression [source].Practice your routine several times before the show, fostering familiarity and comfort for both you and your horse [source].Understanding the ClassEach competition class has unique rules and nuances; ensure you are well-informed to avoid any mishaps. Different classes may have specific requirements for attire and presentation, so a thorough understanding is crucial for success [source].ConclusionBy meticulously preparing both yourself and your horse, you can maximize your chances of leaving an indelible mark in the show ring. Emphasize your horse's best attributes while maintaining a demeanor of professionalism and respect. In-hand showing is as much about performance and presentation as it is about partnership, reflecting the harmony between you and your horse. For more equipment and attire options, visit Just Horse Riders and explore our collections, including the Jodhpur Collection.

The development of a digital equine identification and traceability scheme which it is hoped would help to combat illegal horse smuggling has been put on hold by the government due to financial constraints.Defra ministerBaronessHayman of Ullocktold theNational Equine Forum in London last week that the government recognises the importance of equine identification and traceability, but the pressure on public finances means the project has been paused. However, she added that conversations are continuing about how to improve equine ID and traceability within the current budget.I do recognise that a key concern in the industry is the improvement of equine identification and traceability, said the Baroness, who is Parliamentary Under Secretary of Stage (Minister for Biosecurity, Borders Animal Welfare).She also acknowledged that such a scheme would have an important role to play in equine health and welfare, as well as biosecurity and trade.The government wants to see a robust and streamlined system put in place in order to digitise equine identification and we are at one with the industry on that particular front, added the Baroness. But we have had to pause work in this area, even though we recognise that it is critical, while we tackle the very real challenges that were facing currently around public finances.My officials are continuing to engage with the British Horse Council to explore ways that equine ID and traceability can be improved within the resourcing constraints that we are facing at present, she continued.We had a very positive meeting with them, at which the creation of an industry/Defra co-design project was agreed to look at how we can explore moving forward in this area. Im really pleased that we have a good working relationship; this is a good example where industry and government can work together on a very important issue.Exotic diseases are an ongoing riskDuring the same session about The Equine Industry in a Changing World, which was chaired by World Horse Welfare chief executive Roly Owers, the forum also heard from Dr Richard Newton about how vital a digital equine ID and traceability scheme is for preventing and managing outbreaks of exotic diseases in the future.The UK urgently needs updated digital equine ID and traceability regulations, he said. Exotic and emerging notifiable diseases are an ongoing risk in the equine industry. We have legislation to deal with the majority of these and Defra and the APHA [Animal and Plant Health Agency] oversee the the management of these outbreaks.Have they got everything that they need in order to do the best job possible? No and that is because we [havent got] equine ID and traceability.Horses can be highly mobile, second only to humans, in transport around the globe. Unfortunately, that means they can spread diseases very quickly and very far, continued David. Equine influenza, which was an exotic alien disease to Australia back in 2007, got in, broke out of their quarantine station, and wreaked havoc for a number of months.Effective disease control does require prompt and accurate identification of affected and at-risk animals. That means the tracing of animals promptly that may be at risk from disease.If emerging diseases, vector borne diseases blue tongue, African horse sickness, West Nile virus if theyre going to come in [to the UK] we need to deal with those.Cross species transmission such as the discovery of bird flu antibodies in horses last year is also a risk, added Richard. We believe its low for the horse at the moment, but we have to be aware of it, he confirmed.Horse meat scandal David Mountford, Chair of the British Horse Council, called an digitised equine identification and traceability the foundation stone for the industry.I am really pleased to hear the minister say she understands that this is the way forward and that government buys into it fully, he said.I hope that we can get it over the line. It is going to enable the equine industry to grow and to flourish.David added that after the horse meat scandal in 2013 when foods advertised in the EU were found to have undeclared or improperly declared horse meat in them the British Horse Council was invited to a meeting by the Secretary of State to find a way to avoid it happening again.We told the Secretary of State that digital equine ID and traceability will work. He said its a great idea and then he left [office], said David.Over the last 12 years, weve met with every single minister and theyve all said its a no brainer digital equine traceability is the answer. Last year, draft legislation was put together. Then we had a change in government and a spending review, which has put things on pause.Equine the ideal pilotDavid also suggested that the equine industry would be the ideal pilot for such a scheme, which could then be rolled out across other sectors, such as agriculture.He said the Livestock Information Service has ear-marked 500 million for the roll-out of a digital scheme for the meat-producing sector.We are probably looking for less than 1%, maybe even less than half a percent, of that to take this forward, he explained.Were so much further ahead than the Livestock Information Service and [equine] could be the perfect pilot. Agricultural species could benefit from seeing how we get on with running an equine system.Livestock is a big industry [with a] quarter of a million employees. A quarter of a million people are employed by the equine industry in the UK. That is the same number [you get if] you add up the totals of everyone involved in the sheep, pig, dairy, and beef industries.So we are a big player. We should be playing for higher stakes.Illegal tradeMultiple high profile cases have highlighted the need for acentralised and fully digitalised ID and traceability system across the UK and EU.In February last year, the Dover 26 a transporter crammed full of horses being exported to Europe were discovered. Many of the 26 equines on board did not have the necessary paperwork to travel.More recently, Your Horse reported on the three-year-old ex-racehorse who suffered a fractured skull and severe wounds after being trampled by other horses in an overloaded lorry destined for slaughter.World Horse Welfare researchedthe backgrounds of a group of eight horses who came into their care after a transporter carrying 20 horses was stopped at Dover in December 2024and compiled a timeline of events to identify the gaps that illegal traders are exploiting.Last week, the charity called on the government to implement stronger legislation to disrupt horse smugglingas they believe a lack of accountability is being exploited by smugglers when the UK is used as a land bridge for moving horses between Ireland and the EU.Main image ShutterstockRelated contentHow to tell if a horse is happyUK bans live export of horses for slaughterPetition set up with the aim of updating the Dangerous Dogs Act to better protect horsesPublic attitudes towards horse sport on the right track but there is still more to doLearn to read your horses body language with this expert adviceThe post Critical digital equine ID and traceability scheme paused by the government due to costs appeared first on Your Horse.

How to properly use equipment such as elastic bands, longeing systems, and rein rigsIn the equestrian world training aids can play useful and effective roles in correcting certain mistakes or issues under saddle, whether horse-, rider-, or training-based. Misuse of these tools, however, can make things worse and potentially even dangerous. | Photo: iStockI was 8, and I couldnt dive. I thought I understood the technique. But my stomach and face hit the water first every time, and Id come up for air frustratedand hurting. My dad finally said, You just need to know what it feels like. If you can recognize the feel, youll get it. He picked me up and aimed me headfirst into the water, my arms stretched out dutifully in front of me as Id had them for weeks. This time, those arms broke the water over my head, and I slid deep down into the water until my ears were heavy. It was an amazing and totally new sensation. I pushed up to the surface, energized with this discovery, and called out, I get it! I get it!From then on I dove correctlyand never again did a belly flop. All Id needed was a training aid to get me going, literally, in the right direction.This article isnt about swimming, of course. But the metaphor is relevant. In the equestrian world training aidssuch as elastic bands, Pessoa longeing systems, and various rein rigscan play useful and effective roles in correcting certain mistakes or issues under saddle, whether horse-, rider-, or training-based. Misuse of these tools, however, can make things worse and potentially even dangerous. Before you dive into using devices, consider two equine biomechanics researchers insight into these trendy pieces of equipment. By separating fact from fiction, youll know how to take advantage of their benefits and avoid inappropriate use. FACT: Good horse training doesnt require any devicesWhen good training and good riding coincide with a sound and well-balanced horse, theres no need for training aids, says Sue Dyson, MA, VetMB, PhD, DEO, former head of Clinical Orthopaedics at the Animal Health Trust Centre for Equine Studies, in Newmarket, England. The aims of these aids are generally to encourage the correct use of the back and core abdominal muscles, and if the horse is being worked correctly under saddle, these areas should be getting sufficient activation, she says. The biomechanics of training aids are fairly straightforward: Get the horses head and neck down and the hindquarters engaged for better core muscle strength, balance, and straightness. If the horse goes with his head in the air, that reduces range of motion in the back, and the abdominal muscles wont be engaged like they should be, Dyson says.

Horse owners nationwide now have access to a comprehensive guide on horse trailer safety and maintenance with the release of Brad Heaths The Honest to Goodness Truth About Horse Trailers. Drawing from nearly 30 years of hands-on experience in the horse trailer industry, Heaths book provides invaluable insights into trailer selection, maintenance, and safe towing practices.Heath, owner of Double D Trailers, has distilled his extensive knowledge into a user-friendly resource that demystifies the complexities of horse trailers. From understanding trailer anatomy and mastering mechanics to prioritizing safety and ensuring horse comfort, this book covers all essential aspects of responsible horse transportation.My goal is to empower horse owners with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions and keep their horses safe on the road, says Heath. This book is a culmination of my experiences and a reflection of my commitment to horse welfare.The Honest to Goodness Truth About Horse Trailers offers practical advice on topics such as:Understanding various trailer configurations (gooseneck, bumper pull, living quarters).Mastering essential trailer systems (brakes, lights, tires, hitches).Implementing crucial towing safety tips and assessing vehicle towing capacity.Creating a stress-free transport environment for horses.Implementing effective maintenance routines.Navigating the trailer purchasing process.Featuring testimonials from respected figures like Michael and Kelsey Gascon of Gascon Horsemanship and Miles Henry of HorseRacingSense.com, the book underscores Heaths expertise and dedication.This isnt just a technical manual; its a labor of love, says Michael Gascon.The Honest to Goodness Truth About Horse Trailers is now available in both Kindle eBook ($1.99) and paperback ($19.99) format on Amazon.About Brad Heath:Brad Heath is the owner of Double D Trailers and a seasoned expert in the horse trailer industry. With nearly three decades of experience, he is passionate about improving horse safety and welfare during transport.

One horse in McMinn County, Tennessee, recently tested positive for respiratory equine herpesvirus (EHV). The horse was euthanized. It is unknown if other horses are exposed.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.EHV 101Herpesvirus is highly contagious among horses and can cause a variety of ailments in equids, including rhinopneumonitis (a respiratory disease usually found in young horses), abortion in broodmares, and EHM.In many horses, the first or only sign of EHV-1 infection is fever, which can go undetected.In addition to fever, other common signs of EHV-1 infection in young horses include cough, decreased appetite, depression, and a nasal discharge. Pregnant mares typically show no signs of infection before they abort, and abortions usually occur late in gestation (around eight months) but can be earlier. Abortions can occur anywhere from two weeks to several months following infection with EHV-1.Horses with EHM usually have a fever at the onset of the disease and might show signs of a respiratory infection. A few days later, neurologic signs such as ataxia (incoordination), weakness or paralysis of the fore- and hind limbs, urine retention and dribbling, loss of tail tone, and recumbency (inability to rise) develop.Herpesvirus is easily spread by nose-to-nose or close contact with an infectious horse; sharing contaminated equipment including bits, buckets, and towels; or clothing, hands, or equipment of people who have recently had contact with an infectious horse.Routine biosecurity measures, including hygiene and basic cleaning and disinfection practices, should be in place at all times to help prevent disease spread.Current EHV-1 vaccines might reduce viral shedding but are not protective against the neurologic form of the disease. Implementing routine biosecurity practices is the best way to minimize viral spread, and the best method of disease control is disease prevention.

A standing wrap can be used to keep a wound clean and protected until a veterinarian can assist.Q:My horse came in from the field with what appears to be a puncture near his fetlock joint. His ankle is puffy and I cant tell how deep the wound is, or if it goes into the joint. He does sometimes swell up over small scrapes. My veterinarian is coming to look at him tonight, but what should I do until then? Should I give him any medications, cold hose it, wrap it, or something else?A: First, its great that you have already contacted your veterinarian. Wounds near joints should always be treated as emergencies. Joints comprise smooth cartilage that covers the bony surfaces, a thick capsule that surrounds the joint, and viscous synovial fluid that lubricates the joint as it moves. If the joint capsule is penetrated, bacteria are introduced into the joint. When a joint becomes infected, it is imperative to initiate treatment quickly. Otherwise, the cartilage surfaces sustain long-term damage and severe arthritis will develop.When your veterinarian arrives, he or she will perform an exam to determine the depth and direction of the puncture wound. Your veterinarians strong working knowledge of anatomy helps him or her determine the risk of joint involvement. Based on the exam, he or she will decide if further diagnostics, such as sampling the synovial fluid, are warranted.While it is critical to rule out joint involvement, in many cases swelling seen around a wound is due to cellulitisan infection of the deep layers of the skin. Cellulitis still requires prompt medical attention but has a much better prognosis than an infected joint. Additionally, we all know horses can choose some rather creative ways of injuring themselves, so some of the swelling might be due to trauma associated with the injury.There are a few things you can do while you are waiting to see your vet. You can gently clean the area around the wound with soap and water. Betadine scrub is great to have on hand for these situations. Then you can apply an antiseptic ointment such as silver sulfadiazine cream, cover the wound with a nonstick pad, and apply a standing bandage.The horse should be left in a stall until the vet can examine him. Your proactive care will help your horse have the best possible outcome.

Two horses in Florida recently tested positive for strangles. The horses live in Clay and Okaloosa counties.In Clay County, one horse tested positive on February 24 after developing clinical signs on February 20, including bilateral nasal discharge and fever. The horse is under quarantine.In Okaloosa County, one horse tested positive on February 24 after developing clinical signs on February 18, including fever and nasal discharge. The horse is under quarantine, and two additional horses are exposed.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About StranglesStranglesin horses is an infection caused byStreptococcus equisubspeciesequiand spread through direct contact with other equids or contaminated surfaces. Horses that arent showing clinical signs can harbor and spread the bacteria, and recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks, with the potential to cause outbreaks long-term.Infected horses can exhibit a variety of clinical signs:FeverSwollen and/or abscessed lymph nodesNasal dischargeCoughing or wheezingMuscle swellingDifficulty swallowingVeterinarians diagnose horses using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with either a nasal swab, wash, or an abscess sample, and they treat most cases based on clinical signs, implementing antibiotics for severe cases. Overuse of antibiotics can prevent an infected horse from developing immunity. Most horses make a full recovery in three to four weeks.A vaccine is available but not always effective. Biosecurity measures of quarantining new horses at a facility and maintaining high standards of hygiene and disinfecting surfaces can helplower the risk of outbreakorcontain one when it occurs.

The British Equestrian Trade Associations (BETA) Feed Fact Fortnight is back again for Spring 2025, running between Saturday 29 March Sunday 13 April.BETA are dedicated to equine welfare, and this Feed Fact Fortnight aims to help you access sound nutritional advice. By focusing on good feeding practices and separating fact from fiction, they can help you make more informed choices when it comes to buying your feed and supplements.This years, the fortnight is focused on Preparing your Horse for Competition. Throughout the event we will sharing useful tips and information on feed and supplements for horses of all levels, whether you are heading to your first dressage competition, or are a seasoned eventer. Jump to:Brand VisitsFeed Fact Fortnight OffersFeeding TipsDid You Know?Whats On In-StoreThroughout Feed Fact Fortnight we have trained representatives from a wide range of equestrian feed and supplement brands visiting our Totnes Store, who will be on-hand to offer you FREE advice and guidance. There is no need to book, so if youre unsure how to give your show horse some extra sparkle and energy in the ring, or are planning on heading out competing this summer for the first time and want to check you are feeding your horse correctly, make sure you pop in!Feed & Supplement Brand VisitsDateTimeBrandAbout The BrandTues 1st April10am 2pmSaracenWith a heritage that spans over 200 years, Saracens founding values of trust, integrity, and quality are now coupled with research and innovation to ensure their range meets the very exacting nutritional requirements of the modern equine.Wed 2nd April10am 2pmDengieFounded in 1968 as a farmers cooperative, Dengie is still run today with the same ethos of supporting the local farming community. They grow as many of their own ingredients as possible which keeps their feed miles low and provides the best traceability possible.Fri 4th April10am 2pmSpillersIndustry leaders in equine nutrition and horse feed products, Spillers are passionate to help benefit the lives of our horses and ponies; whether competitive performance is the goal or simply enjoying the pleasures that horses bring.Tues 8th April10am 2pmHorsehageOfficial forage supplier to the British Equestrian Team, HorseHage have a wide collection of forage & fibre based horse food to suit your horse & their dietary requirements.Wed 9th April10am 2pmNAFNAF supplements are created using natural formulas developed by vets & nutritionists using premium grade, fully traceable ingredients.Fri 11th April10am 2pmAnimalifeAnimalife are continuously creating new products packed with the highest quality natural ingredients that are targeted, effective and safe, to help horses live their happiest lives.Feed & Supplement OffersAlong our brand representative visits, we will also have some fantastic offers running throughout the 2-weeks, with discounts on some of your horses favourite feed and supplements, plus some free gifts with selected products!Plus, on Wed 9 April we will be offering 20% off the whole NAF range both in-store and online!Horse Feeding FactsWith so many feeds to choose from and often lots of different factors to take into account, choosing the right feed for your horse can seem a little daunting at times. Below, we share some useful tips to consider when putting together a feeding plan.Feeding TipsIf you are planning on competing, always check the governing bodies rule book for guidance on prohibited substances. Look out for feeds bearing the BETA NOPS (naturally occurring prohibited substances) mark, as this shows that the manufacturer belongs to this assurance scheme, which has taken stringent measures to minimise the risk of cross- contamination. The code, which most of the UKs major feed manufacturers have agreed to comply with, is endorsed by the British Horseracing Authority and National Trainers Association. The British Equestrian Federation requires all squad members to use only NOPS accredited products.When trying to choose a feed for your horse or pony, it can be tricky to know the difference between the types of feed a brand offers. When it comes to the nutritional contents of the feed, it is important to consider the following within the feed:- digestible energy, starch levels, sugar levels and protein amount.Horses at different stages of their lives will have different dietary needs, so what you fed your horse when it was competing as a youngster will likely need to change to what they need to be fed now. Its important to constantly monitor your horses weight, condition and workload to determine whether they are receiving sufficient nutrients and calories from their diet.And remember, always allow your horse access to fresh, clean water at all times.Did You Know?A horses stomach is about the size of a rugby ball (in a 500kg horse).In the wild, horses can cover up to 20 miles per day in search of fresh grazing and water.Calories are the same thing as energy so high energy feeds will also be high in calories.Molasses is a by-product of the sugar production industry. It can come from either sugar beet or sugar cane. It is added to feed to aid palatability as a horses natural diet contains sugar and the horse has evolved to recognise and generally prefer a sweet taste.Balancers are small, nutrient-dense feeds formulated to provide a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, and quality protein to balance the diet alongside a negligible level of energy (calories).Looking For Feeding Advice?At Redpost Equestrian we stock a huge range of horse feeds and supplements. We are always happy to give information on the products we sell or to provide the details of specialist nutritional helplines who can advise further. We always recommend consulting with your vet for any specific dietary concerns.You can contact our knowledgable team by emailing info@redpostequestrian.co.uk, calling 01803 812040, or use our Live Chat service through our website or app. Shop all Horse Feed The post BETA Feed Fact Fortnight Spring 2025: Preparing your Horse for Competition first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

On February 20, a 5-year-old Thoroughbred mare in Washtenaw County, Michigan, tested positive for strangles. The mare developed clinical signs on February 13, including fever, cough, and dysphagia. She is under quarantine, and nine additional horses are exposed.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About StranglesStranglesin horses is an infection caused byStreptococcus equisubspeciesequiand spread through direct contact with other equids or contaminated surfaces. Horses that arent showing clinical signs can harbor and spread the bacteria, and recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks, with the potential to cause outbreaks long-term.Infected horses can exhibit a variety of clinical signs:FeverSwollen and/or abscessed lymph nodesNasal dischargeCoughing or wheezingMuscle swellingDifficulty swallowingVeterinarians diagnose horses using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with either a nasal swab, wash, or an abscess sample, and they treat most cases based on clinical signs, implementing antibiotics for severe cases. Overuse of antibiotics can prevent an infected horse from developing immunity. Most horses make a full recovery in three to four weeks.A vaccine is available but not always effective. Biosecurity measures of quarantining new horses at a facility and maintaining high standards of hygiene and disinfecting surfaces can helplower the risk of outbreakorcontain one when it occurs.