A boarding facility in Pierce County, Wisconsin, has reported that four horses have tested positive for strangles, with two additional horses suspected to be infected.
The horses that have tested positive include a 30-year-old Tennessee Walking Horse gelding, a 14-year-old Quarter Horse gelding, a 7-year-old gelding, and a 16-year-old Quarter Horse gelding. Fortunately, all four horses are currently in the process of recovering.
EDCC Health Watch is a program by Equine Network that utilizes data from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to generate and distribute confirmed equine disease reports. The EDCC is a nonprofit organization that relies on industry donations to provide accessible infectious disease information.
About Strangles
Strangles is an infection in horses caused by Streptococcus equi subspecies equi
Signs of strangles in infected horses may include:
Veterinarians typically diagnose strangles using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with samples from nasal swabs, washes, or abscesses. Treatment is usually based on clinical signs, with antibiotics administered for severe cases. However, excessive antibiotic use can hinder the horse’s ability to develop immunity. Most horses recover fully within three to four weeks.
Although a vaccine is available, its effectiveness can vary. Implementing biosecurity measures such as quarantining new horses and maintaining high levels of hygiene and surface disinfection can help reduce the risk of an outbreak or contain one if it occurs.