Quarantine and Recovery: Containing a Strangles Outbreak in Ontario
Introduction
A recent outbreak of Strangles, a highly infectious equine disease, has been reported in Wellington County, Ontario. This particular outbreak involves a 15-year-old Standardbred mare that exhibited clinical signs on August 29, 2024. This incident underscores the critical need for vigilance and effective management practices to safeguard equine health. In this article, we will dive into the details of the outbreak, the symptoms and diagnosis of Strangles, and the essential measures for preventing and managing the spread of this disease.
Main Findings
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Strangles is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus equi subspecies equi. The disease presents several distinct clinical signs. The affected mare in Wellington County exhibited fever and swelling in the throat region—common symptoms of the disease. Other typical signs include:
- Swollen and abscessed lymph nodes
- Nasal discharge
- Coughing or wheezing
- Muscle swelling
- Difficulty swallowing
Diagnosis is typically confirmed through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, which involves samples from nasal swabs, washes, or abscesses. In the case of the Standardbred mare, a swab tested positive for S. equi on PCR testing, confirming the presence of the disease.
Transmission and Biosecurity
Strangles is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with infected horses or through contaminated surfaces. Horses that are not showing clinical signs can still harbor and spread the bacteria, and recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks, posing a long-term risk for outbreaks.
Given the contagious nature of Strangles, biosecurity measures are crucial in controlling its spread. The facility where the mare was housed has voluntarily stopped the movement of horses on and off the property and is working with their veterinarian to implement strict biosecurity protocols.
Impact and Response
The response to the outbreak has been swift and coordinated. Local authorities, including the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), have been informed, and the facility manager has taken proactive steps to contain the disease. The Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) has also played a pivotal role in disseminating verified information and creating awareness about the outbreak, ensuring that the equine community is well-informed and prepared to take necessary precautions.
Preventative Measures
Preventing Strangles outbreaks involves a combination of biosecurity measures and vaccination. Here are some key strategies:
Quarantine New Horses
New horses should be quarantined for at least two weeks before being introduced to the main herd to reduce the risk of introducing the disease.
High Standards of Hygiene
Rigorous sanitization of surfaces, equipment, and living areas is essential. This includes regular cleaning and disinfection of stalls, feeding and watering equipment, and any other items that come into contact with horses.
Vaccination
While a vaccine is available, its effectiveness can vary. It is crucial to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best vaccination strategy for your horse population.
Conclusion
The recent Strangles outbreak in Wellington County underscores the importance of prompt diagnosis, quarantine, and community cooperation in managing infectious diseases in horses. By adhering to strict biosecurity measures and staying informed through reliable sources like the EDCC, horse owners and caretakers can significantly reduce the risk of outbreaks.
Further Research
To enhance our understanding and management of Strangles, ongoing research is necessary in several areas:
- Efficacy of the Strangles Vaccine: Studies on the effectiveness of the current vaccine and potential improvements are crucial for developing more reliable prevention strategies.
- Biosecurity Measures: Analyzing the effectiveness of different biosecurity protocols can help in refining best practices for preventing and containing outbreaks.
- Global Case Studies: Examining global case studies and outbreaks of Strangles can provide valuable insights into successful containment strategies and patterns of disease spread.
- Long-term Impacts: Investigating the long-term impacts of Strangles on recovered horses and strategies to reduce the risk of future outbreaks is essential for long-term equine health management.
By focusing on these areas, we can better protect the health and well-being of equine populations and mitigate the risks associated with infectious diseases like Strangles.