Medycyna Wet. 67 (3), 177-180, 2011
| Krumrych W. |
| Influence of exercise on mechanisms of immunity in horses |
| This paper summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding the influence of physical exercise on immunity mechanisms in horses. Results of many studies indicate that exercise has an immunomodulating effect on horses. The immunological reaction depended on the intensity of physical exercise. It was found that moderate (single or cyclical) physical exercise stimulated the immunological system (increased the number and activity of immunological cells), while exhausting physical exercise decreased the efficiency of the innate and adaptive mechanisms of immunity. Epidemiological data confirm that the intensive exercise can increase the incidence of respiratory tract infections in horses, whereas moderate exercise presumably decreases the hazard of infection. In order to minimize the exercise-induced risk of infection, regular vaccinations, monitored training, control and supplementation of diet, reducing the environmental stress and, if necessary, chemo- and immunotherapy were recommended. |
| Keywords: exercise, immunity, horses |