Understanding Strangles in Horses Steps for Prevention and Dealing Wit

Understanding Strangles in Horses: A Recent Outbreak

In recent news from Middlesex County, Ontario, three horses have tested positive for strangles, also known as Streptococcus equi subspecies equi. This disease has sent ripples through equine communities, sparking a flurry of precautions and biosecurity measures. Let's dive into the details of the outbreak and explore what measures can be taken to prevent such incidents in the future.

What is Strangles?

Strangles is a contagious upper respiratory tract infection in horses, causing fever, nasal discharge, swollen lymph nodes, and sometimes, abscesses. The disease is known for its ability to spread quickly through direct horse-to-horse contact or indirectly through contaminated surfaces and people, known as fomites. Horses can become contagious even before showing symptoms and may remain so for weeks after recovery.

The Outbreak in Middlesex County

In the recent outbreak, the three affected horses include two Standardbreds and a pony. Local veterinarians confirmed their infection through PCR testing. Following this discovery, the affected horses were isolated immediately to prevent further spread. The trainers have voluntarily restricted movement and withdrawn horses from racing activities as an added measure of precaution. It's crucial to note that strangles can have varying clinical manifestations, and some horses may not show significant symptoms, making regular monitoring essential.

Treatment and Vaccination Options

For uncomplicated strangles cases, treatment typically involves managing clinical signs. The use of antibiotics is reserved for severe cases, such as systemic infections or internal abscesses, to prevent the blunting of the horse's immune response. Overuse of antibiotics can extend the bacterium's carriage in horses, complicating control measures. A vaccine is available for strangles but is not foolproof. It functions better as a component of a larger herd-health strategy instead of a standalone solution.

Implementing Biosecurity Measures

Biosecurity is paramount during an outbreak and beyond. Key measures recommended by veterinarians include: - **Quarantine**: Isolate affected or newly arrived horses for at least 14-21 days. - **Monitoring**: Regularly check and record the temperatures of all horses, at least twice a day. - **Hygiene**: Ensure strict hand and clothing hygiene for all handlers. - **Disinfection**: Clean and disinfect tack, equipment, and high-touch surfaces meticulously. - **Avoidance of Shared Resources**: Limit shared water and feed sources. - **Restricted Movement**: Confine horses that were exposed to the infection until they receive veterinary clearance. Cooperation with local animal-health authorities and prompt reporting of cases through networks like the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) are critical for keeping the larger community informed and safe.

Implications for Horse Owners and Trainers

This incident is a reminder of the recurring threat strangles poses to equine health. For owners and trainers, steps such as isolating symptomatic horses, consulting veterinarians promptly, and reinforcing biosecurity protocols are essential to curbing outbreaks. Long-term prevention could benefit considerably from comprehensive herd-health planning and vaccination strategies under veterinary guidance. In conclusion, while strangles presents significant challenges, adherence to proper biosecurity measures and proactive management can significantly reduce outbreak risks. The emphasis remains on vigilance, timely intervention, and community cooperation to maintain the health and safety of equine populations. Sources: - [Equine Disease Communication Center](https://equinediseasecc.org) - [Standardbred Canada](https://standardbredcanada.ca/notices/12-10-25/strangles-confirmed-ontario-standardbreds.html)

Understanding Strangles in Horses Steps for Prevention and Dealing With Outbreaks