A number of stables in the region of Trois-Rivières, Quebec were exposed to Equine Influenza following a pair of recent Standardbred racing events. A total of 24 horses at one stable in Pierre-de-Saurel, including Standardbred race horses and Quarter Horse pleasure horses, were exposed; another farm in the same area reported one confirmed case with 13 suspected. At a barn in Les Maskoutains, a mare and foal have been affected, with seven additional horses suspected; 10 horses were exposed with one confirmed in Bécancour; 12 horses were exposed at a barn in Joliette, as well as an unknown number at a farm in Trois-Rivières.
Equine Influenza is a highly contagious, though rarely fatal, respiratory disease transmitted by airborne droplets from affected horses. Clinical signs include fever, lethargy, anorexia, muscle pain/weakness; dry, hacking cough, nasal discharge, and enlarged painful lymph nodes. Treatment consists of supportive care and rest. Isolation of affected animals and increased biosecurity for 14 days after the clinical signs are resolved are recommended.
For more information about Equine Influenza, click here.
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