Equine Distemper (Strangles)

We have heard that many of you are concerned about an outbreak of strangles, also known as equine distemper, at a quarantine facility located here in Texas. We want to reassure you that this disease has not occurred at our facility and we are shipping healthy horses as usual. Here is a little information for you about this highly contagious disease that affects the upper respiratory system of equines. It is caused by the Strepcoccus Equi bacteria and it affects the lymph nodes in the horses' upper respiratory tract. The lymph nodes become swollen and, in advanced cases of the disease, actually become abscessed and eventually rupture and drain. Abscesses can form throughout the body, including the lungs, liver, spleen, kidneys and brain. Strangles is spread through contact with infected horses. It can be spread through food, water and equipment that is shared with infected horses and when the bacteria from nasal discharges and abscesses in infected horses becomes airborne, they can be inhaled by other horses, causing them to contract the disease. While strangles can affect horses of all ages, the younger ones (under five years of age) tend to be more susceptible. It also tends to be more prevalent when the weather is cold and damp. Symptoms usually develop between two and six days after exposure. Horses who are infected with strangles need to be isolated from other horses for between four and six weeks. Treatment for the disease includes antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, intravenous fluids and lancing of abscesses. Hot packs may be applied to swollen and abscessed lymph nodes to reduce the swelling and discomfort. Vaccination against strangles is available, but even vaccinated horses can contract the disease. (source: www.nativeremedies.com)