Introduction to Strangles in Horses
Strangles is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Streptococcus equi. It is highly contagious and can spread quickly among horses. It is primarily transmitted by direct contact between horses, as well as indirectly through contact with contaminated objects, such as grooming tools or feed buckets. Horses of any age or breed can be affected, although younger horses tend to be more susceptible.
The most common signs of strangles in horses include fever, nasal discharge, depressed appetite, swollen lymph nodes, and abscesses. While the disease is generally not life-threatening, it can cause significant distress and discomfort to the affected horse. Treatment of strangles typically involves antibiotics and supportive care, but it can take weeks to resolve.
How Long Can a Horse Remain a Carrier of Strangles?
Horses can remain carriers of strangles for weeks or even months after they have recovered from the initial infection. This is because the bacteria that cause strangles can survive for long periods of time in the environment, and horses can become infected again if they come into contact with the bacteria.
In addition, horses that have recovered from strangles can continue to spread the bacteria through their nasal secretions. This means that a horse can continue to be a carrier of strangles even after it has recovered from the initial infection.
Risk Factors for Carriers
There are certain risk factors that can increase the likelihood of a horse becoming a carrier of strangles. These include:
- Age: Younger horses are more likely to become carriers of strangles than older horses.
- Environment: Horses kept in overcrowded environments or those who come into contact with horses that have had strangles are more likely to become carriers.
- Immune System: Horses with weakened immune systems are more likely to become carriers of strangles.
Testing for Carriers
The most common way to test for carriers of strangles is to use a nasal swab. This involves inserting a small swab into the horse’s nose and then sending it to a laboratory for analysis. Other tests, such as blood and urine tests, can also be used to identify carriers of strangles.
Preventing the Spread of Strangles
The best way to prevent the spread of strangles is to limit contact between horses and to practice good hygiene. Horses that have been infected with strangles should be isolated from other horses, and all grooming and handling equipment should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
In addition, horses should be vaccinated against strangles as part of their routine vaccinations. This can help reduce the risk of horses becoming carriers of the disease.
Treatment for Carriers
Treatment for carriers of strangles typically involves antibiotics and supportive care. Antibiotics can help reduce the amount of bacteria in the horse’s system and can help clear up the infection.
Supportive care is also important for carriers of strangles. This can include good nutrition, rest, and regular veterinary examinations. In some cases, the veterinarian may recommend a course of additional treatments, such as hydrotherapy, to help the horse recover.
Long-Term Effects of Strangles
Even after the horse has recovered from strangles, there are potential long-term effects. These can include damage to the horse’s respiratory system, such as chronic coughing or labored breathing. In addition, some horses may experience recurring abscesses or other complications.
Precautions for Carriers
Horses that are carriers of strangles should be monitored closely. They should be isolated from other horses and should not be used for breeding or competing. In addition, their nasal secretions should be monitored for any signs of a relapse.
Conclusion
Horses can remain carriers of strangles for weeks or even months after they have recovered from the initial infection. It is important to identify carriers of strangles as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the disease. Treatment typically involves antibiotics and supportive care, and horses should be monitored closely to prevent any long-term effects. Vaccination can also help reduce the risk of horses becoming carriers.
References
Adkins, J. (2015). Strangles in horses. The Merck Veterinary Manual. Retrieved from https://www.merckvetmanual.com/digestive-system/intestinal-diseases-of-horses/strangles-in-horses
American Association of Equine Practitioners. (2019). Strangles in horses. Retrieved from https://aaep.org/horsehealth/strangles-in-horses
Cusick, M. (2020). Strangles in horses. The Horse. Retrieved from https://thehorse.com/condition/strangles/