The Rise of Strangles: Rhode Island Horses in Quarantine
In a recent incident, two horses from a serene stable in Providence County, Rhode Island, have taken an unexpected turn by testing positive for strangles. This is a challenging infectious disease caused by the notorious bacterium Streptococcus equi subspecies equi. Like a horse mimicking a grizzled cowboy, it’s highly contagious and can spread through both direct contact and shared environments.
Understanding Strangles
Strangles isn't just a name that piques interest; it’s a formidable illness. While direct horse-to-horse interaction is its favorite highway, strangles also rides on contaminated surfaces or equipment. Sneaky, right? Interesting enough, horses can spread this disease without flaunting any symptoms, acting like that infectious guest at the party you never knew was sick. Even those who’ve recovered can share the virus for a staggering six weeks!
Diagnosing the Disease, the Modern Way
Diagnosing strangles mainly involves PCR testing, where samples are taken from nasal swabs or, on dramatic occasions, abscesses. This modern-day equivalent of a lie detector test is preferred over traditional culture methods due to its speed and sensitivity. But beware, it can't differentiate live bacteria from dead ones – akin to gulping old milk and guessing which part turned.
Treatment: A Balancing Act
Treating strangles involves more than just handing out antibiotics like candy at Halloween. Usually, it’s about supportive care: managing fevers with anti-inflammatory meds, helping abscesses resolve, and ensuring comfort meals are fed at ground level – think of it as dining with style for horses. In severe cases, antibiotics become the solution but can prevent horses from developing necessary immunity, much like trying to learn bike-riding without ever facing a fall.[1][2]
Avoiding Outbreaks: A Backstage Peep
Preventing strangles strikes involves robust biosecurity measures like the strident isolation of infected equines, quarantining new arrivals, and keeping hygiene practices squeaky clean. This bacterium has quite the resilience, surviving on surfaces and in water for weeks. As for vaccines? They exist, but aren't champions at preventing all infections; however, they may dial down the severity and spread.[1][4]
The Role of Equine Disease Communication Center
The Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) is like the virtual town crier for horses, offering timely alerts and insights into infectious diseases threatening our dear quadrupeds. Supported by industry donations, EDCC plays a vital role in safeguarding horse populations through vigilant disease monitoring and by educating horse owners.
The Rhode Island incident shines a light on the importance of rapid diagnosis, stringent quarantines, and comprehensive measures to contain strangles and protect our joy-galloping companions.
For more information on Strangles, please visit Equine Disease Communication Center.
Sources: TheHorse.com under Equine Network, LLC
