Missouri Quarter Horse Tests Positive for Strangles
Incident Overview
A recent case of Strangles has been confirmed in Cass County, Missouri, involving a 3-year-old Quarter Horse filly. The horse started showing symptoms on September 1, including a fever and nasal discharge, which led to further investigation. By September 9, the filly tested positive for Strangles, a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus equi subspecies equi.
Current Status
The infected horse is currently under quarantine to prevent the spread of the disease to other equines in the area. Quarantine measures are crucial in controlling the outbreak and ensuring that the infection does not spread further.
Spread and Symptoms
Strangles is a contagious disease that spreads through direct contact with infected horses or through contact with contaminated surfaces, such as water buckets, feed troughs, and grooming equipment. Key symptoms of Strangles include fever, swollen lymph nodes, nasal discharge, coughing, muscle swelling, and difficulty swallowing. These symptoms can vary in severity and may appear within 3 to 14 days after exposure.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of Strangles is typically performed using PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) testing with samples from nasal swabs, washes, or abscesses. Treatment for Strangles is largely based on clinical signs and may involve antibiotics for severe cases. However, the overuse of antibiotics can hinder the development of immunity in horses, making it important to use these medications judiciously.
Recovery and Prevention
Most horses recover fully from Strangles within three to four weeks. While a vaccine against Strangles exists, its efficacy is not guaranteed, and it does not provide complete protection against the disease. Therefore, effective biosecurity measures are critical in controlling outbreaks. These measures include quarantining new arrivals, maintaining strict hygiene practices, and ensuring that all equipment and surfaces are regularly cleaned and disinfected.
Role of the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC)
This report is part of the EDCC Health Watch, a program by the Equine Network that relies on data from the EDCC. The EDCC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing open access to verified infectious disease information for equines. The EDCC plays a vital role in gathering and disseminating critical disease information, helping equine owners, veterinarians, and facilities to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect equine health.
Impactful Information
The article underscores the importance of vigilance and quick response to symptoms suspicious of Strangles. Early detection and prompt action can significantly reduce the risk of large outbreaks.
It also highlights the challenges and limitations of current vaccines, emphasizing the continuous need for robust biosecurity and preventive measures in equine facilities.
Noteworthy Facts
- Horses can remain contagious for at least six weeks post-recovery, posing a long-term risk for disease spread.
- The EDCC is supported by industry donations and works independently to gather and disseminate critical disease information, making it a valuable resource for the equine community.
Conclusion
The confirmation of Strangles in a Missouri Quarter Horse serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining high standards of biosecurity and hygiene in equine facilities. By staying informed through resources like the EDCC and implementing effective preventive measures, equine owners and caregivers can significantly reduce the risk of disease outbreaks and protect the health of their horses. The role of the EDCC in providing verified and timely information is crucial in this effort, and their resources should be utilized to ensure the best possible outcomes for equine health.
Sources: TheHorse.com