The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has verified that a single horse at a private facility in Putnam County has been diagnosed with strangles. Unfortunately, the horse had to be euthanized, and five other horses were exposed to the infection.
EDCC Health Watch is a marketing initiative of the Equine Network that leverages data from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to compile and distribute accurate reports on equine diseases. The EDCC is an independent nonprofit organization funded by industry contributions to provide accessible information on infectious diseases.
Understanding Strangles
Strangles is an equine infection caused by Streptococcus equi subspecies equi and is transmitted through direct contact with infected horses or contaminated surfaces. Even asymptomatic horses can carry and spread the bacteria, and recovered horses can remain contagious for up to six weeks, potentially leading to long-lasting outbreaks.
Common clinical signs of strangles in horses include:
- Fever
- Swollen or abscessed lymph nodes
- Nasal discharge
- Coughing or wheezing
- Muscle swelling
- Difficulty swallowing
Veterinarians typically diagnose strangles in horses using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with samples from nasal swabs, washes, or abscesses. Treatment is usually based on clinical symptoms, with antibiotics prescribed 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.
While a vaccine is available, it may not always provide complete protection. Implementing biosecurity measures such as quarantining new arrivals and maintaining strict hygiene protocols can help reduce the risk of outbreaks and contain them if they occur.