Help prevent the spread of infectious diseases

By Gary Sliworsky
OMAFRA Rep.

Following is the latest Horse News and Views which is prepared by Dr. Bob Wright, Animal Health and Welfare, OMAFRA, in cooperation with the staff and researchers of the University of Guelph.
The monthly column highlights research topics, extension resources, reminders of common poisonings, disease or production concerns and coming events and is placed on our website, http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/livestock/horses/news.html.
A stable is in quarantine near Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, as a result of a highly contagious form of Equine Herpes (Rhinopneumonitis EHV-1). The first incident was noted on March 13, when the operators of a stable noticed some horses running fevers and stumbling.
As of April 4th, one horse had been euthanized and three others were showing milder clinical signs.
Herpes may present as a severe respiratory infection, but it may also cause a neurological disease or abortion in pregnant mares. (Source: ProMed Mail. March 26 and April 4, 2008, http://www.promedmail.com; Western College News, http://blogs.usask.ca/wcvm_news/)
This is the latest in the sporadic occurrence of this virus. Currently, none of the available vaccines protect from the neurological form.
It is our job to prevent the spread and effect of the more significant infectious diseases, including: Equine Herpes virus (Rhinopneumonitis), Influenza, Rabies, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, West Nile virus, Strangles and Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA). Management strategies to reduce transmission of infectious diseases include:
• Physically separate and minimize contact of newly arrived horses with established horses.
• Reduce activities that induce stress to prevent virus reactivation (e.g., herpes virus).
• Minimize stall movement of horses.
• Vaccinate horses appropriately before exposure.
For further information, contact Dr. Bob Wright (519) 846-3412 or visit our website: http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/

Dates to Remember
·June 17 - 20 – Large animal clinic dates for Dr. Blair Simonson. Call 274-7393 to book an appointment.