Reports from a boarding facility in Prince William County, Virginia, indicate that one horse has tested positive for strangles and is currently under quarantine.
EDCC Health Watch, a program by Equine Network, relies on information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to share verified equine disease updates. The EDCC is a nonprofit organization that depends on industry donations to offer accessible infectious disease information.
Understanding Strangles
Strangles is an equine infection caused by Streptococcus equi subspecies equi, transmitted through direct contact with infected horses or contaminated surfaces. Even asymptomatic horses can carry and spread the bacteria, with recovered horses remaining contagious for up to six weeks, posing a long-term risk of 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 using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with samples from nasal swabs, washes, or abscesses. Treatment is based on clinical signs, and antibiotics are usually 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, its effectiveness can vary. Implementing biosecurity measures such as quarantining new horses and maintaining strict hygiene practices can help reduce the risk of outbreaks or contain them if they occur. For more information on protecting your horse from strangles, visit here and learn what to do in case of an outbreak here.