Why Test? Seasonal allergic reactions in horses can affect the skin, respiratory tract, and even digestion. Identifying specific sensitivities to pollens — such as grasses, weeds, and trees — is crucial for effective long-term management and avoiding unnecessary treatments. Horses of any breed, age, or sex can be affected, often with symptoms that peak during spring and summer. Key Benefits Precise allergen identification: Based on specific IgE response HERBU scoring system: Results reported on a 0–5 scale for clinical clarity Minimally invasive: Requires only a blood sample — no sedation, shaving, or intradermal injections Highly reproducible: Standardized and validated laboratory method Fast turnaround: Results ready in 2 to 7 working days What’s Tested? The test covers three key allergen classes relevant to seasonal exposures. Results are IgE-specific, avoiding cross-reactivity with IgG or CCDs. 🌱 Grasses and Crops Poa pratensis (Kentucky bluegrass)  Phleum pratense (Timothy grass)  Cynodon dactylon (Bermuda grass)  Festuca pratensis (Meadow fescue)  Sorghum halepense (Johnson grass)  Secale cereale (Rye)  Dactylis glomerata (Orchard grass)  Artemisia vulgaris (Mugwort)  🌿 Weeds Chenopodium album (Lamb’s quarters)  Plantago lanceolata (Plantain)  Rumex crispus (Curly dock)  🌳 Trees Betula populifolia (Gray birch) Salix caprea (Goat willow)  Corylus avellana (Hazel)  Fagus sylvatica (Beech)  🧪 Sample Requirements 2 mL serumor 4 mL whole blood (serum tube) ⏱️ Turnaround Time 2 to 7 working days 🧬 About the Results Results are expressed using the HERBU score (0–600) Each allergen is classified into clinical reactivity classes (0–5) IgE-specific testing avoids cross-reactions with IgG or irrelevant allergens Supports formulation of custom Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy (ASIT) when indicated

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Allergy testing Results are given as Positive or Negative allergy for each of the 4 classes of allergens, without identification of the specific allergen in each class.  Allergens classes: 1 - Dust mites, 2 - Pollens, 3 - Moulds, 4 - Insects Sample 2 mL serum or 4 mL - blood - serum tube   Turnaround time 5  working days   Why test? Equine allergies are common and can affect any breed, age or sex of horse. Symptoms involving the skin, respiratory and gastrointestinal systems can occur for a number of reasons with the diagnosis of allergy being made by systematically ruling out other common conditions. Once diagnosed, knowing what allergens your horse is sensitive to allows you to manage their condition in a way that is specific to their individual needs. Key points: Rapid and easy identification of potential offending allergens Non-invasive and not influenced by most medications Standardised procedure with excellent reproducibility  

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Why Test? Equine allergies are relatively common and can affect horses of any breed, age, or sex. Allergic reactions involving the skin—particularly those associated with insect bites—are a major cause of discomfort. Conditions such as Sweet Itch (Insect Bite Hypersensitivity) are diagnosed by excluding other common causes of pruritus and dermatitis. Once confirmed, identifying the specific insect allergens affecting your horse allows for targeted management and improved quality of life. Key Benefits Fast and accurate identification of relevant insect allergens Non-invasive sample collection Not affected by most medications Highly reproducible and standardized procedure Insects Tested Results are provided for each of the following six insect genera, with reactivity scored from 0 to 5 using the HERBU scoring system:   Genus Species Observation Chrysops spp. Includes multiple species of Chrysops (deer flies) Culex spp. Includes multiple mosquito species of Culex Tabanus spp. Includes multiple horse fly species of Tabanus Stomoxys  calcitrans Stable fly: specific to Stomoxys calcitrans Culicoides spp. includes Culicoides nubeculosus Includes multiple species of Culicoides, notably C. nubeculosus (sweet itch in horses) Blattella germanica Cockroach: specific to Blattella germanica (German cockroach)   Allergen-specific IgE is measured, ensuring precise detection with no cross-reactivity from IgG or CCDs. Sample Requirements 3 mL serum or 6 mL whole blood (in serum tube) Turnaround time 2-7  working days  

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Allergy testing Results: The results are provided as positive/negative results for each of the 6 allergens composed of feathers, hair and skin from 6 species of animals that may cohabit with horses:  1 - cat, 2 - dog, 3 - rabbit, 4 - guinea pig, 5 - parrot, 6 - feather mix Sample 2 mL serum or 4 mL - blood - serum tube   Turnaround time 10  working days   Why test? Equine allergies are common and can affect any breed, age or sex of horse. Symptoms involving the skin, respiratory and gastrointestinal systems can occur for a number of reasons with the diagnosis of allergy being made by systematically ruling out other common conditions. Once diagnosed, knowing what allergens your horse is sensitive to allows you to manage their condition in a way that is specific to their individual needs. Key points: Rapid and easy identification of potential offending allergens Non-invasive and not influenced by most medications Standardised procedure with excellent reproducibility  

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Results Results are provided (reactive 0 to 5 ) for all allergens in all 4 allergen classes, with identification of the results obtained for each specific allergen in each class. In total, results are provided for 34 allergens. Pack of 4 full screenings: 1 - Environmental - Mites and Fungi + 2 - Environmental - Pollens + 3 - Environmental - Insects + 4 - Food Sample 5 mL serum or 10 mL - blood - serum tube   Turnaround time 10  working days   Why test? Equine allergies are common and can affect any breed, age or sex of horse. Symptoms involving the skin, respiratory and gastrointestinal systems can occur for a number of reasons with the diagnosis of allergy being made by systematically ruling out other common conditions. Once diagnosed, knowing what allergens your horse is sensitive to allows you to manage their condition in a way that is specific to their individual needs. Key points: Rapid and easy identification of potential offending allergens Non-invasive and not influenced by most medications Standardised procedure with excellent reproducibility

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Allergy testing Results: Results are given reactive/ non-reactive with identification of 8 different specific food allergen for both IgE and IgG.  Reactive/Non-reactive IgE and IgG for the following food allergens: wheat, barley, oats, corn, molasses, soy, yeast, alfalfa Sample 2 mL serum or 4 mL - blood - serum tube   Turnaround time 10  working days   Why test? Equine allergies are common and can affect any breed, age or sex of horse. Symptoms involving the skin, respiratory and gastrointestinal systems can occur for a number of reasons with the diagnosis of allergy being made by systematically ruling out other common conditions. Once diagnosed, knowing what allergens your horse is sensitive to allows you to manage their condition in a way that is specific to their individual needs. Key points: Rapid and easy identification of potential offending allergens Non-invasive and not influenced by most medications Standardised procedure with excellent reproducibility

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About the Test – Comprehensive Allergy Panel The Comprehensive Allergy Panel evaluates sensitivity to a wide range of environmental and insect allergens in horses. Using advanced detection technologies, the test measures allergen-specific IgE with high precision and avoids cross-reactivity with IgG or CCDs (cross-reactive carbohydrate determinants). All results are interpreted using the HERBU scoring system, which provides clinically relevant categorization of IgE reactivity levels for each allergen. Why Test? Identifying specific allergens responsible for your horse's symptoms is essential for targeted allergy management. The Comprehensive Allergy Panel enables early detection and supports the development of effective treatment and prevention strategies, including immunotherapy. Benefits of the  Test Broad screening of European environmental and insect allergens. High sensitivity: detects specific IgE levels down to 10 pg per sample. Rapid turnaround: results in 2 to 7 working days. Results expressed according to the HERBU score, ensuring clinically meaningful interpretation. Specific for IgE only, with no interference from IgG or non-relevant cross-reactions. Special Considerations The test should not be performed during or immediately after anti-allergy treatments (e.g., corticosteroids, antihistamines), as these can suppress IgE responses and yield false-negative results. FAQs How can anti-allergy treatments affect the test results? These treatments can lower IgE production or activity, potentially resulting in underestimation of allergen sensitivity. It is advised to wait an appropriate period after treatment before testing. What makes the Comprehensive Allergy Panel different from standard allergy tests?This panel uses IgE-specific detection and a refined scoring system (HERBU) to ensure accurate, clinically significant results. It avoids misleading positives from IgG or carbohydrate-based cross-reactions. Environmental Allergens Screened  Perennial Allergens (Mites and Molds) : Acarus siro, Dermatophagoides farinae,  Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus,  Tyrophagus putrescentiae, Alternaria alternata, Cladosporium herbarum. Seasonal Allergens (Crops, Grasses, Weeds):  Secale cereale, Sorghum halepensis, Poa pratensis, Festuca pratensis. Trees: Betula populifolia, Salix Caprea, Corylus avellana, Fagus sylvatica.   Insects: Culicoides spp,  Culex tarsalis, Tabanus spp  

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Pathogen test  Immunoblot  for Borrelia burgdorferi, the pathogen responsible for the Lyme disease or Borreliose. The Immunoblot method used identifies the most frequent Borrelia genotypes, B. burgdorferi, B. garinii, B. afzelli, B. bavariensis and B. spielmanii.In case of suspected contact with Borrelia and presence of compatible clinical signs, a control test is recommended after 4 to 6 weeks. Sample 5 mL - blood - serum tube Turnaround time 2 to 5 working days   What is Lyme disease? Lyme disease is a tickborne illness that results from infection with members of the Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex. These organisms are maintained in wild animals, but they can affect humans and some species of domesticated animals, like horses. Lyme disease has been reported in North America, Europe, Australia and parts of Asia. Clinical signs Clinical signs appear in less than 10% of horses infected with the bacteria. Signs include: Lameness (usually of larger joints) that shifts from limb to limb; Generalised stiffness; Soreness in the large joints and back; Low-grade fever (which may or may not be present); Behavioural changes such as reluctance to work and irritability; Laminitis (occasionally associated with Lyme disease) Horses do not show a skin rash with Lyme disease. Swelling around a tick bite in a horse is generally due to a reaction to the tick’s saliva, not Lyme disease. Transmission The ticks become infected when they feed on rodents such as the white-footed mouse that carry the bacteria. The tick can then pass on this infection when it feeds on another host, such as a horse or deer. The bacteria migrate from the tick to the horse after 12 to 24 hours of attachment. In areas where the incidence of disease is high among people, only about 50% of horses are likely to become infected. Of these horses, less than 1 in 10 develops clinical signs of the disease. The remaining horses either have subclinical infection (carry the antibodies against the bacteria but remain clinically healthy) or their immune systems fight off the bacteria (and these horses carry the antibodies to Lyme disease for up to a year). People can also be infected with Lyme disease, but there is no risk of the disease being transmitted from horses to humans. Prevention Since there is no vaccine available, prevention is focused on control of the tick population: Perform a daily tick examination. Remember that it takes 12 to 24 hours of attachment for bacteria to migrate from the tick to the host. Treat turned out horses with permethrin-based insect repellents during peak adult deer tick seasons: early spring, late summer, and fall. Minimize habitat for ticks and their hosts.  

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 Pathogen test  The RT-qPCR test detects the genome (RNA) of West Nile Virus (WNV). Sample 5 mL - blood - K3 EDTA tube 5mL - liquor (CSF) - sterile tube Turnaround time 2 to 5 working days   What is West Nile Virus? West Nile virus (WNV) is a zoonotic mosquito-transmitted viral disease that cause can cause encephalitis or meningitis, infection of the brain and the spinal cord or their protective covering. Most horses bitten by carrier mosquitoes do not develop disease. Of those that do, approximately one-third develop severe disease and die or are so affected that euthanasia is required. The time between the bite of an infected mosquito and when clinical signs appear, ranges from three to 14 days. Clinical signs In horses that do become clinically ill, the virus infects the central nervous system and causes symptoms of encephalitis.  Clinical signs of encephalitis in horses include loss of appetite and depression, in addition to any combination of the following signs: fever, weakness or paralysis of hind limbs, muscle fasciculations or muzzle twitching, impaired vision, ataxia (incoordination), head pressing, aimless wandering, convulsions, inability to swallow, circling, hyper-excitability, or coma. It is important to note that not all horses with clinical signs of encephalitis have West Nile encephalitis. Other diseases, including rabies, botulism, equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM), and other mosquito-borne viral encephalitic diseases of horses caused by Eastern,Western, and Venezuelan encephalitis viruses, can cause a horse to have symptoms similar to WNV. Only laboratory tests can confirm the diagnosis of West Nile encephalitis. Transmission WNV is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. Horses cannot spread the disease to humans, but humans are susceptible to the disease if bitten by a carrier mosquito. There is no evidence that horses can transmit WNV to other horses, birds, or people. WNV may cross the placenta from mother to gestating foal. No transfusion related horse illnesses have been reported. However, human to human transmission via blood transfusions have been confirmed, so this method of transmission is possible in horses. Prevention There is no specific treatment for West Nile encephalitis in horses, supportive veterinary care is recommended. Currently, there are some vaccines available against West Nile Virus. It is imperative that horses are vaccinated according to the label on the vaccine. Horses vaccinated against Eastern, Western, and Venezuelan equine encephalitis are not protected against West Nile Virus. There are some easy steps you can take to prevent mosquitoes from affecting your horses: House horses indoors during peak periods of mosquito activity (dusk and dawn). Avoid turning on lights inside the stable during the evening and overnight (mosquitoes are attracted to lights). Place incandescent bulbs around the perimeter of the stable to attract mosquitoes away from the horses. Remove all birds, including chickens, that are in or close to the stable. Look around the property periodically for dead birds, such as crows. Any dead birds should be reported to the local health department. Use rubber gloves to handle dead birds or use an implement, such as a shovel. Eliminate areas of standing water on your property. Shallow standing water, used tires, manure storage pits, and drainage areas with stagnant water are ideal mosquito breeding places. Topical preparations containing mosquito repellents are available for horses. Read the product label before using and follow all instructions. Use fans on the horses while in the stable to help deter mosquitoes. Fog stable premises with a pesticide in the evening to reduce mosquitoes. Read directions carefully before using.

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 Pathogen test  The RT-qPCR test detects the genome (RNA) of Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis (VEE) virus. Sample 5 mL - blood - K3 EDTA tube 5mL - liquor (CSF) - sterile tube Turnaround time 2 to 5 working days   What is Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis? Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus is a mosquito borne viral pathogen that causes Venezuelan equine encephalitis or encephalomyelitis (VEE). VEE can affect all equine species, such as horses, donkeys and zebras.  After infection, equines may suddenly die or show progressive central nervous system disorders. Humans also can contract this disease.  Clinical signs WEE viruses affect the nervous system, so affected animals will have fever, depression and changes in behaviour. Signs of infection may also include impaired vision, muscle twitches, circling or head pressing behaviours, the inability to swallow, paralysis and convulsions. For VEE, death rates are variable but can be as high as 90%. Transmission The virus is transmitted to people and horses by bites from infected mosquitoes and birds during wet, summer months. Prevention Vaccines for EEE are available for horses. Measures to control mosquito populations and minimize mosquito exposure will decrease chances of infection.

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Pathogen test  The ELISA test detects antibodies to the West Nile Virus (WNV). Sample 5 mL - blood - serum tube Turnaround time 2 to 5 working days   What is West Nile Virus? West Nile virus (WNV) is a zoonotic mosquito-transmitted viral disease that cause can cause encephalitis or meningitis, infection of the brain and the spinal cord or their protective covering. Most horses bitten by carrier mosquitoes do not develop disease. Of those that do, approximately one-third develop severe disease and die or are so affected that euthanasia is required. The time between the bite of an infected mosquito and when clinical signs appear, ranges from three to 14 days. Clinical signs In horses that do become clinically ill, the virus infects the central nervous system and causes symptoms of encephalitis.  Clinical signs of encephalitis in horses include loss of appetite and depression, in addition to any combination of the following signs: fever, weakness or paralysis of hind limbs, muscle fasciculations or muzzle twitching, impaired vision, ataxia (incoordination), head pressing, aimless wandering, convulsions, inability to swallow, circling, hyper-excitability, or coma. It is important to note that not all horses with clinical signs of encephalitis have West Nile encephalitis. Other diseases, including rabies, botulism, equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM), and other mosquito-borne viral encephalitic diseases of horses caused by Eastern,Western, and Venezuelan encephalitis viruses, can cause a horse to have symptoms similar to WNV. Only laboratory tests can confirm the diagnosis of West Nile encephalitis. Transmission WNV is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. Horses cannot spread the disease to humans, but humans are susceptible to the disease if bitten by a carrier mosquito. There is no evidence that horses can transmit WNV to other horses, birds, or people. WNV may cross the placenta from mother to gestating foal. No transfusion related horse illnesses have been reported. However, human to human transmission via blood transfusions have been confirmed, so this method of transmission is possible in horses. Prevention There is no specific treatment for West Nile encephalitis in horses, supportive veterinary care is recommended. Currently, there are some vaccines available against West Nile Virus. It is imperative that horses are vaccinated according to the label on the vaccine. Horses vaccinated against Eastern, Western, and Venezuelan equine encephalitis are not protected against West Nile Virus. There are some easy steps you can take to prevent mosquitoes from affecting your horses: House horses indoors during peak periods of mosquito activity (dusk and dawn). Avoid turning on lights inside the stable during the evening and overnight (mosquitoes are attracted to lights). Place incandescent bulbs around the perimeter of the stable to attract mosquitoes away from the horses. Remove all birds, including chickens, that are in or close to the stable. Look around the property periodically for dead birds, such as crows. Any dead birds should be reported to the local health department. Use rubber gloves to handle dead birds or use an implement, such as a shovel. Eliminate areas of standing water on your property. Shallow standing water, used tires, manure storage pits, and drainage areas with stagnant water are ideal mosquito breeding places. Topical preparations containing mosquito repellents are available for horses. Read the product label before using and follow all instructions. Use fans on the horses while in the stable to help deter mosquitoes. Fog stable premises with a pesticide in the evening to reduce mosquitoes. Read directions carefully before using.

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Pathogen test  The RT-qPCR test detects the genome (RNA) of Equine Encephalosis virus (EEV). Sample 5 mL - blood - K3 EDTA tube 5mL - liquor (CSF) - sterile tube Turnaround time 2 to 5 working days   What is Equine Encephalosis Virus? Equine Encephalosis (EE) is an arthropod borne febrile non contagious disease of equines. The causative virus, Equine encephalosis virus (EEV), has several serotypes (EEV1-EEV7) and the virus has been reported from southern Africa including Kenya, Botswana and South Africa. Clinical signs The name equine encephalosis is misleading as the disease is not primarily a neurological disorder. Although the majority of infections result only in mild clinical signs, in more severe cases clinical signs include a short period (typically two to five days) of fluctuating fever, accompanied by varying degrees of inappetence.  Elevated heart and respiratory rates are also common, and occasionally as a result of nasal congestion, a red-brown discolouration of the mucous membranes may be observed.   Although rare, more severe clinical signs may occur including facial swelling (lips and eyelids), respiratory distress, and petechial haemorrhages of the conjunctivae. Pregnant mares may also abort during their first 5 months of gestation. Neurological signs are atypical, but in certain cases hindquarter ataxia, convulsions, hyper-excitability, and depression have been reported. The mortality rate is normally low, accounting for only 5% of infected animals. Transmission EEV is transmitted by Culicoides spp. All Equidae may be infected, but only horses exhibit symptoms. Serological evidences in endemic countries indicate that zebras and donkeys might maintain EEV circulation; however, their true role in the transmission is still unknown Prevention In the vast majority of cases (c. 90%) the animal will recover without further complications, and a course of anti-inflammatories or appetite stimulants may be administered. Occasionally, antibiotics are prescribed in order to prevent the appearance of secondary infections. Some equids show no clinical signs at all but are biliary carriers. Although in this instance the animal is not in immediate danger, it must be treated in order to prevent the reemergence of the virus were the immune system to be challenged by another disease simultaneously. Due to the absence of an effective vaccine, vector control remains one of the primary methods of prevention. Control of the midges is usually only instigated for domesticated stabled horses, and includes precautionary measures such as the limited use of lights at night, as well as the use of fly repellents and fans.

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Pathogen test  The qPCR test detects the genome (DNA) of Rabies virus. Sample 1 swab - saliva - dry swab 5mL - blood - K3 EDTA tube 5mL - liquor (CSF) - sterile tube Turnaround time 2 to 5 working days   What is Rabies?  Rabies is a virus that causes a neurological disease that can affect all mammals. When an animal is bitten, the virus migrates to the brain where it causes inflammation, known as encephalitis. It is rapidly progressive and invariably fatal. The incubation period – the time between the virus’ entry into the body and the onset of clinical signs – averages 2 to 9 weeks, but may be as long as 15 months. Clinical signs Clinical signs can be subtle and could include: Sudden change in behaviour (depression to manic); Lameness or being unable to rise; Head-pressing and circling; Pain or difficulty urinating; Muscle tremors or convulsions; Persistent and painful erection in absence of sexual interest; Loss of appetite; Appearance of choke; Neurologic signs such as incoordination and paralysis; and Sudden death can also be seen on occasion. Transmission We see an increased incidence of rabies infections in horses and other livestock in the late summer and fall when wildlife populations peak. Horses contract rabies through the bite of an infected (rabid) animal, such as a raccoon, fox, skunk or bat. A horse’s curiosity can get the best of him, with bites typically occurring on the horse’s face and muzzle or lower limbs. Most exposures aren’t noticed and most bite wounds aren’t found. Since wildlife may enter barns (especially at night), both horses in stalls and those on pasture are at risk of exposure. Due to the serious threat for human exposure when handling a horse with rabies, any suspected case of equine rabies should be handled as if it were positive until proven otherwise. You may become infected with the rabies virus through contact with saliva or brain/nervous system tissue from a rabid animal. Individuals who have been in contact with a horse since the onset of clinical signs should immediately consult with their physician regarding medical treatment. Prevention Horse owners can take advantage of some basic husbandry practices and good common sense to help reduce the risk factors that can contribute to disease incidence. One thing that all of us can do is to keep our feed storage areas neat and clean. Untidy areas with spilled feed invites unwanted guests such as opossums.  Keep your feed in sealed or closed containers. Cover your hay storage area if possible. Keep rodents under control on your property. Discourage visits by opossums. Check with local authorities with respect to trapping and relocating opossums or eliminating them. Properly dispose of any animal carcasses that you may see on or near your property. Clean your equine water sources on a regular basis. Do not feed on the ground. When transporting horses, make them as comfortable as possible.   

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Pathogen test  The RT-qPCR test detects the genome (RNA) of Japanese Encephalitis virus (JEV). Sample 5 mL - blood - K3 EDTA tube 5mL - liquor (CSF) - sterile tube Turnaround time 2 to 5 working days   What is Japanese Encephalitis Virus? Japanese encephalitis occurs throughout most of Asia, including India, China and Japan. In temperate areas, infection usually occurs in late summer and autumn, when mosquitoes are more active. Infection builds up in water birds and then spreads by mosquitoes to pigs during late spring and early summer and finally to humans and horses. Cases in humans and horses tend to be sporadic or occur in small clusters, but serious outbreaks could occur in a large, susceptible population exposed to infected mosquitoes. Infected horses are dead-end hosts as there is not enough of the virus in their blood to infect mosquitoes. Clinical signs These include: vary from a passing fever through to violent neurological signs and death mild cases: off feed, sluggish and reddened or jaundiced (yellow) mucous membranes (gums) more serious cases: lethargic with a fluctuating fever, difficulty swallowing, jaundice (yellow), pinpoint haemorrhages in mucous membranes (gums) nervous signs such as lack of coordination, staggering, falling, aimless wandering and unpredictable behaviour may occur in serious cases severe cases: blindness with profuse sweating and muscle trembling before collapsing and dying. Transmission Japanese encephalitis is caused by a virus related to West Nile virus and Murray Valley encephalitis virus. The virus cycles naturally between water birds (herons and egrets) and mosquitoes. Pigs can also be infected and spread disease causing abortions in pregnant sows and neurological signs in piglets. Humans and horses may suffer severe disease from the virus, but they do not spread the disease. Infections without recognisable signs occur in other livestock and animals. The disease has an incubation period of 8–10 days. Prevention Sanitary prophylaxis Housing animals in-doors in screened stabling can provide protection from mosquitoes o Especially during active JE outbreaks and during peak vector activity (usually dawn to dusk) o Insecticides, repellents and fans also provide protection. Vector control reduces transmission. Vaccine is available for horses .  Vaccine protects horses from clinical disease and possible sequelae.

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 Pathogen test  The RT-qPCR test detects the genome (RNA) of Western Equine Encephalitis (WEE) virus. Sample 5 mL - blood - K3 EDTA tube 5mL - liquor (CSF) - sterile tube Turnaround time 2 to 5 working days   What is Western Equine Encephalitis? Western equine encephalitis (WEE) is a viral disease carried by mosquitoes. WEE occurs in the western parts of the United States, including Iowa and Canada. WEE causes “sleeping sickness” in horses. Clinical signs WEE viruses affect the nervous system, so affected animals will have fever, depression and changes in behaviour. Signs of infection may also include impaired vision, muscle twitches, circling or head pressing behaviours, the inability to swallow, paralysis and convulsions. Survival rates of horses infected with WEE is 70-80%.  Transmission The virus is transmitted to people and horses by bites from infected mosquitoes and birds during wet, summer months Prevention Vaccines for WEE are available for horses. Measures to control mosquito populations and minimize mosquito exposure will decrease chances of infection.

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Pathogen test  The RT-cPCR test detects the genome (RNA) of Hendra virus. Sample 5 mL - blood - K3 EDTA tube and/or 5mL - liquor (CSF) - sterile tube Turnaround time 2 to 5 working days   What is Hendra virus? Hendra virus (HeV) infection is a rare emerging zoonosis that causes severe and often fatal disease in both infected horses and humans. The natural host of the virus has been identified as being fruit bats of the Pteropodidae Family, Pteropus genus. Clinical signs The clinical signs in horses can include:  frothy nasal mucus high temperature rapid heart rate sweating muscle spasms and twitching muscle weakness balance difficulties rapid deterioration. Transmission Hendra virus can be transmitted from flying fox to horse, horse to horse and horse to human. The exact route of transmission is not known, but it is thought that horses become infected via contact or droplet transmission of the virus.This may occur by ingesting material contaminated by infected flying fox body fluids and excretions. While Hendra virus is present in flying fox populations periodically, the likelihood of horses becoming infected is low. Hendra virus can spread from horse to horse through direct contact with infectious body fluids, or through indirect contact via equipment contaminated with infectious body fluids. The few cases of Hendra virus infection in people occurred following high-level exposure to respiratory secretions (e.g. mucus) and/or blood and other body fluids from an infected horse. Other people have reported having some contact with infected horses but have remained well, and their blood tests have shown no evidence of Hendra virus infection. There is no evidence of Hendra virus spreading from person to person or from flying foxes to humans. The scientific information available on the disease is not complete. Research continues so that we can learn more about Hendra virus—particularly about how it is transmitted from flying foxes to horses. Prevention How to reduce the risk of horses becoming infected: A Hendra virus vaccine is available for horses. Vaccination is the single most effective way of reducing the risk of Hendra virus infection in horses. Discuss the option of vaccination with your veterinarian. See Vaccination in this brochure for more information. Remove horse feed and water containers from under trees. If possible, place feed and water containers under a shelter. Remove your horses from paddocks where flowering/fruiting trees may be attracting flying foxes. Return the horses only after the trees have stopped flowering/fruiting and the flying foxes have gone. If the horses cannot be removed from the paddock, consider fencing (temporary or permanent) to restrict access to flowering/fruiting trees. Clean up any fruit debris underneath the trees before returning the horses. If it is not possible to remove your horses from paddocks for long periods, try to temporarily remove your horses during times of peak flying fox activity (usually at dusk and during the night). Clean and disinfect gear exposed to any body fluids from horses before using it on another horse. This includes items like halters, lead ropes and twitches. Talk to your veterinarian about which cleaning agents and disinfectants to use. When cleaning contaminated equipment, wear gloves, cover any cuts or grazes and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards. If your horse becomes sick, isolate it from other horses, other animals and people until a veterinarian’s opinion is obtained.  

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 Pathogen test  The qPCR test detects the genome (DNA) of Sarcocystis neurona, the pathogen responsible for Equine Protozoa Myeloencephalitis. Sample 2- 5 mL - liquor (CSF)  - in EDTA tube. feces - sterile container  postmortem tissues.  Turnaround time 2 to 5 working days   What is Equine Protozoa Myeloencephalitis? EPM is progressive, degenerative neurological disease of the central nervous system.  The disease is one of the most commonly diagnosed neurological disorders of horses in the United States. The protozoa does not occur in horse manure, so EPM is not spread between horses. So the horses is considered a dead end host. Clinical signs Since EPM is a disease of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and it can affect multiple locations within the brain and spinal cord, the signs and severity of this disease can vary dramatically. Though EPM can affect both the brain and spinal cord, it is more common for the signs of disease to be associated with damage to the spinal cord, but we can and do see insult to the brain.  We typically refer to the 3 “A”s of this disease: Asymmetry, Ataxia and Atrophy.  Asymmetry is a term we use to describe a symptom that is worse on one side of the body than on the opposite side. In other words, with EPM, the signs are generally worse on the left side than on the right or visa versa.  Ataxia is a term we use to describe incoordination or the inability of the horse to know exactly where its legs are, resulting in inability to move its legs and trunk normally. Atrophy describes a condition where the muscles shrink from their normal size. With EPM, this results from damage to the nerves that normally control or “innervate” these muscles. Muscle atrophy is not seen in all cases of EPM, so it is not as consistent a sign of disease as is the asymmetrical ataxia.  Transmission Life Cycle of Sarcocystis neurona  S. neurona has a complex, two-host life cycle.  The opossum has been identified as a definitive host of S. neurona. The opossum ingests sarcocysts in muscle tissues of scavenged carcasses of intermediate hosts. The parasite undergoes a form of sexual reproduction within the opossum which produces the sporocyst Sporocysts are shed in the feces of the opossum. Sporocysts can survive in the environment for several months. The horse is an aberrant, intermediate host. The horse is exposed by ingesting feed or water contaminated with opossum feces that contain sporocysts. The parasite undergoes a form of asexual reproduction in the horse and eventually gains access to the brain and spinal cord  Prevention Horse owners can take advantage of some basic husbandry practices and good common sense to help reduce the risk factors that can contribute to disease incidence. One thing that all of us can do is to keep our feed storage areas neat and clean. Untidy areas with spilled feed invites unwanted guests such as opossums.  Keep your feed in sealed or closed containers. Cover your hay storage area if possible. Keep rodents under control on your property. Discourage visits by opossums. Check with local authorities with respect to trapping and relocating opossums or eliminating them. Properly dispose of any animal carcasses that you may see on or near your property. Clean your equine water sources on a regular basis. Do not feed on the ground. When transporting horses, make them as comfortable as possible. Transportation stress can be a contributing factor for EPM.  

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Pathogen test  This ELISA test detects antibodies to Equine Viral Arteritis (EVA) virus. Sample 5 mL - blood - serum tube Turnaround time 2 to 5 working days   What is Equine Viral Arteritis? Equine viral arteritis (EVA) is an economically important viral disease of equids. Stallions can become long term carriers of the virus, and transmit it during breeding. Although carrier stallions can be bred if precautions are taken, the need to mate them with seropositive or vaccinated mares decreases their desirability as breeders. Acute illness also occurs in some horses. Although deaths are very rare in healthy adults, pregnant mares that become infected may abort, and very young foals may die of fulminating pneumonia and enteritis. Equine viral arteritis has recently increased in prevalence, possibly due to increased transportation of horses and semen. Clinical signs Most EAV infections, especially those that occur in mares bred to long-term carriers, are asymptomatic. The clinical signs are generally more severe in old or very young animals, and in horses that are immunocompromised or in poor condition. Fulminant infections with severe interstitial pneumonia and/ or enteritis can be seen in foals up to a few months of age. Systemic illness also occurs in some adults. In adult horses, the clinical signs may include fever, depression, anorexia, limb edema (particularly in the hindlimbs), and dependent edema of the prepuce, scrotum, mammary gland and/or ventral body wall. Conjunctivitis, photophobia, periorbital or supraorbital edema and rhinitis can also be seen. Abortions or stillbirths can occur in mares that are pregnant when they are exposed. Abortions are not necessarily preceded by systemic signs. Temporary decreases in fertility, including reduced quality sperm and decreased libido, may be seen in stallions during the acute stage of the disease. Transmission Equine Arteritis Virus (EAV) can be transmitted by the respiratory and the venereal routes. Acutely affected horses excrete the virus in respiratory secretions; aerosol transmission is common when horses are gathered at racetracks, sales, shows and other events. This virus has also been found in urine and feces during the acute stage. It occurs in the reproductive tract of acutely infected mares, and both acutely and chronically infected stallions. In mares, EAV can be found in vaginal and uterine secretions, as well as in the ovary and oviduct, for a short period after infection. Mares infected late in pregnancy may give birth to infected foals. Stallions shed EAV in semen, and can carry the virus for years. Transmission from stallions can occur by natural service or artificial insemination. Some carriers may eventually clear the infection. True carrier states have not been reported in mares, geldings or sexually immature colts; however, EAV can occasionally be found for up to six months in the reproductive tract of older prepubertal colts. Equine arteritis virus can be transmitted on fomites including equipment, and may be spread mechanically by humans or animals. Semen remains infectious after freezing. Prevention Acutely infected horses should be isolated to prevent transmission in secretions and excretions. Precautions should also be taken to avoid spreading the virus on fomites. EAV is readily inactivated by detergents, common disinfectants and lipid solvents. No specific treatment is available; however, most healthy horses other than young foals recover on their own. Good nursing and symptomatic treatment should be used in severe cases. Vaccination can also help contain outbreaks. Venereal transmission can be controlled by good management and vaccination. To protect pregnant mares from abortion, they should be separated from other horses and maintained in small groups according to their predicted foaling dates. Newly acquired horses should be isolated for 3 to 4 weeks. Vaccination appears to prevent uninfected stallions from becoming long term carriers. Stallions that are not carriers should be vaccinated before the start of the breeding season. Prepubertal colts are given the vaccine when they are 6-12 months old. Carrier stallions are identified and bred only to well vaccinated or naturally seropositive mares. Similarly, semen that contains EAV should be used only in these mares. Because first-time vaccinates may shed field viruses for a short time after exposure, these mares should be isolated from seronegative horses, particularly pregnant mares, for three weeks after breeding. Naturally infected mares and those that are not first-time vaccinates are isolated for 24-48 hours, to protect other horses from the viruses present in semen. Carrier stallions should be housed where they can be physically separated from uninfected horses; in one case, stallions apparently became infected by indirect exposure to semen. However, this appears to be rare. EAV is sensitive to sunlight and low humidity, and uninfected stallions have been kept near carriers for years without infection. Excellent hygiene and decontamination of fomites should be practiced when breeding infected horses or collecting semen.

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Pathogen test  The RT-cPCR test detects the genome (RNA) of Borna virus. Sample 5 mL - blood - K3 EDTA tube and/or 5mL - liquor (CSF) - sterile tube Turnaround time 2 to 5 working days   What is Borna virus? Borna disease is caused by one of just a few bornaviruses that occur in a wide variety of warm-blooded animals. This virus attacks the nerve cells within the brain itself causing dangerous levels of inflammation. This virus is frequently lethal once symptoms begin presenting themselves, however, antibodies specific to the virus have frequently been found in the blood of animals who are clinically unaffected. This suggests that some horses and other animals may become infected and remain asymptomatic. Borna disease is a rare viral infection that causes swelling of the nerve cells in the brain, leading to unusual behaviours and seizures, and is frequently fatal. Clinical signs The clinical signs of Borna disease usually occur in horses two to three months after the initial exposure, although there have been reports of incubation periods exceeding six months.  Blindness Chewing motions  Colic symptoms Collapse Head-pressing Hypersensitivity Lack of coordination Leaning  Loss of appetite Muscular tremors Paralysis Rapid and involuntary eye movement Sawhorse stance Severe depression Weakness  Yawning Transmission The virus that causes Borna disease in horses is closely related to the bornavirus that affects birds and is believed to be the cause of  Proventricular Dilatation Disease (PDD) in birds. The transmission methods for these viruses are not well understood, but direct contact with either saliva or nasal secretions are believed to be a common vector. Borna disease emerges more frequently on farms with poor rodent control and hygiene, and instances seem to peak during the months between March to June. Prevention Experimental vaccines for immunopathology have had mixed results. In some cases, the immunopathology of the infection caused some vaccines to exacerbate the disease, but recent evidence suggests the possibility of effective inoculation. Although some preliminary research indicates success with protective vaccination of mice, at this writing, no pre-exposure vaccine has been developed for use with horses. Treatment The antiviral drug amantadine sulfate may be a potential treatment for Borna disease virus. It has been demonstrated in vitro to inhibit wild-type BDV replication and spread of infection. As with prevention of the disease, much research is needed to develop successful treatment strategies because, currently, the fatality rate ranges between 60 to 95 percent for horses, and animals that survive often remain neurologically impaired permanently.

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Pathogen test  This PCR test detects the genome (DNA) of Taylorella equigenitalis the most comum bacteria responsible for the Contagious Equine Metritis. Sample 3 genital swabs - swab Amies transport with charcoal. Clitoral fossa – use standard swab with Amies culture and transport system Clitoral sinuses swabbed – use Minitip Amies culture and transport system. Openings to the sinuses are on the dorsum of the clitoris - the central one is usually always present whereas the lateral sinuses may be multiple or not be present. Swab all that are present. Either cervical (closed cervix if pregnant or mid-cycle) or endometrial (while in estrus or true anestrus) swab – use guarded 25” swab. Turnaround time 2 to 5  working days   What is Contagious Equine Metritis? Contagious equine metritis is an inflammatory disease of the proximal and distal reproductive tract of the mare caused by Taylorella equigenitalis, which usually results in temporary infertility. It is a nonsystemic infection, the effects of which are restricted to the reproductive tract of the mare. Clinical signs When present, general clinical signs include endometritis, cervicitis and vaginitis of variable severity and a slight to copious mucopurulent vaginal discharge. In mares there are two states of infection: The active state in which the main outward sign is a vulval discharge, which may range from very mild to extremely profuse. The carrier state in which there are no outward signs of infection. However, the mare remains capable of transmitting infection because the bacteria are established on the surface of the clitoris, the clitoral fossa and sinuses and, in the case of pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa, sometimes in the urethra and bladder. In stallions: (‘stallion’ means mating stallions, teasers and stallions used for AI) Infected stallions do not usually show clinical signs of infection but the bacteria are present on their penis, sheath and. These stallions can infect mares during mating, teasing or AI. Occasionally, the bacteria may invade the stallion’s sex glands, causing pus and bacteria to contaminate the semen. Transmission Direct venereal contact during natural mating presents the highest risk for the transmission of equigenitalis from a contaminated stallion or an infected mare. Direct venereal transmission can also take place by artificial insemination using infective raw, chilled and possibly frozen semen. Indirectly, infection may be acquired through fomite transmission, manual contamination, inadequate observance of appropriate biosecurity measures at the time of breeding and at semen- collection centres. Stallions can become asymptomatic carriers of equigenitalis. The principal sites of colonisation by the bacterium are the urogenital membranes (urethral fossa, urethral sinus, terminal urethra and penile sheath). The sites of persistence of equigenitalis in the majority of carrier mares are the clitoral sinuses and fossa and infrequently the uterus. Foals born of carrier mares may also become carriers. The organism can infect equid species other than horses, e.g. donkeys. Prevention If infection with equigenitalis is suspected in any mare, stallion or teaser on the basis of clinical signs, all breeding activities must cease immediately. The affected horse(s) should be isolated and swabbed by the attending veterinary surgeon. Arrange swabbing of any at risk horse. Disinfect all equipment used for breeding procedures. Inform all owners of mares booked to the stallion, including any which have already left the premises; Inform people to whom semen from the stallion has been sent; Arrange for one straw from every ejaculate of stored semen from infected and at risk stallions to be tested by a laboratory. If a straw from any ejaculate is infected, all straws from that ejaculate should be destroyed; Any at risk pregnant mare must be foaled in isolation. The placenta must be incinerated. Foals born to these mares should be swabbed three times, at intervals of not less than seven days, before three months of age. Any mares with an abnormal vaginal exudate, or returning to oestrus prematurely, should be investigated and managed as though infected with equigenitalis until results of laboratory testing prove otherwise. If carriers of equigenitalis are detected, the organism can be eliminated by treatment with systemic and/or local antibiotics combined with antiseptic washing of the sites of persistence in the mare and the stallion.  

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Pathogen test The culture test detects the presence of Taylorella equigenitalis, the most comum bacteria responsible for the Contagious Equine Metritis. Sample 3 genital swabs - swab Amies transport with charcoal. Clitoral fossa – use standard swab with Amies culture and transport system Clitoral sinuses swabbed – use Minitip Amies culture and transport system. Openings to the sinuses are on the dorsum of the clitoris - the central one is usually always present whereas the lateral sinuses may be multiple or not be present. Swab all that are present. Either cervical (closed cervix if pregnant or mid-cycle) or endometrial (while in estrus or true anestrus) swab – use guarded 25” swab.   NOTE: Schedule all CEM culture submissions in advance with the laboratory. Multiple culture instances are often required and timing is critical. Official CEM testing generally involves multiple sets of samples taken on multiple days. Exact sampling schedules need to be confirmed with appropriate regulatory agencies in advance of testing. Horses cannot be tested while being treated and for a period of time after treatment with antibiotics. Turnaround time 7  working days   What is Contagious Equine Metritis? Contagious equine metritis is an inflammatory disease of the proximal and distal reproductive tract of the mare caused by Taylorella equigenitalis, which usually results in temporary infertility. It is a nonsystemic infection, the effects of which are restricted to the reproductive tract of the mare. Clinical signs When present, general clinical signs include endometritis, cervicitis and vaginitis of variable severity and a slight to copious mucopurulent vaginal discharge. In mares there are two states of infection: The active state in which the main outward sign is a vulval discharge, which may range from very mild to extremely profuse. The carrier state in which there are no outward signs of infection. However, the mare remains capable of transmitting infection because the bacteria are established on the surface of the clitoris, the clitoral fossa and sinuses and, in the case of pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa, sometimes in the urethra and bladder. In stallions: (‘stallion’ means mating stallions, teasers and stallions used for AI) Infected stallions do not usually show clinical signs of infection but the bacteria are present on their penis, sheath and. These stallions can infect mares during mating, teasing or AI. Occasionally, the bacteria may invade the stallion’s sex glands, causing pus and bacteria to contaminate the semen. Transmission Direct venereal contact during natural mating presents the highest risk for the transmission of equigenitalis from a contaminated stallion or an infected mare. Direct venereal transmission can also take place by artificial insemination using infective raw, chilled and possibly frozen semen. Indirectly, infection may be acquired through fomite transmission, manual contamination, inadequate observance of appropriate biosecurity measures at the time of breeding and at semen- collection centres. Stallions can become asymptomatic carriers of equigenitalis. The principal sites of colonisation by the bacterium are the urogenital membranes (urethral fossa, urethral sinus, terminal urethra and penile sheath). The sites of persistence of equigenitalis in the majority of carrier mares are the clitoral sinuses and fossa and infrequently the uterus. Foals born of carrier mares may also become carriers. The organism can infect equid species other than horses, e.g. donkeys. Prevention If infection with equigenitalis is suspected in any mare, stallion or teaser on the basis of clinical signs, all breeding activities must cease immediately. The affected horse(s) should be isolated and swabbed by the attending veterinary surgeon. Arrange swabbing of any at risk horse. Disinfect all equipment used for breeding procedures. Inform all owners of mares booked to the stallion, including any which have already left the premises; Inform people to whom semen from the stallion has been sent; Arrange for one straw from every ejaculate of stored semen from infected and at risk stallions to be tested by a laboratory. If a straw from any ejaculate is infected, all straws from that ejaculate should be destroyed; Any at risk pregnant mare must be foaled in isolation. The placenta must be incinerated. Foals born to these mares should be swabbed three times, at intervals of not less than seven days, before three months of age. Any mares with an abnormal vaginal exudate, or returning to oestrus prematurely, should be investigated and managed as though infected with equigenitalis until results of laboratory testing prove otherwise. If carriers of equigenitalis are detected, the organism can be eliminated by treatment with systemic and/or local antibiotics combined with antiseptic washing of the sites of persistence in the mare and the stallion.

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Pathogen test  This RT-qPCR test detects the genome (RNA) to Equine Viral Arteritis (EVA) virus. Sample 5 mL - blood - K3 EDTA blood 10 mL - semen - sterile tube Turnaround time 2 to 5 working days   What is Equine Viral Arteritis? Equine viral arteritis (EVA) is an economically important viral disease of equids. Stallions can become long term carriers of the virus, and transmit it during breeding. Although carrier stallions can be bred if precautions are taken, the need to mate them with seropositive or vaccinated mares decreases their desirability as breeders. Acute illness also occurs in some horses. Although deaths are very rare in healthy adults, pregnant mares that become infected may abort, and very young foals may die of fulminating pneumonia and enteritis. Equine viral arteritis has recently increased in prevalence, possibly due to increased transportation of horses and semen. Clinical signs Most EAV infections, especially those that occur in mares bred to long-term carriers, are asymptomatic. The clinical signs are generally more severe in old or very young animals, and in horses that are immunocompromised or in poor condition. Fulminant infections with severe interstitial pneumonia and/ or enteritis can be seen in foals up to a few months of age. Systemic illness also occurs in some adults. In adult horses, the clinical signs may include fever, depression, anorexia, limb edema (particularly in the hindlimbs), and dependent edema of the prepuce, scrotum, mammary gland and/or ventral body wall. Conjunctivitis, photophobia, periorbital or supraorbital edema and rhinitis can also be seen. Abortions or stillbirths can occur in mares that are pregnant when they are exposed. Abortions are not necessarily preceded by systemic signs. Temporary decreases in fertility, including reduced quality sperm and decreased libido, may be seen in stallions during the acute stage of the disease. Transmission Equine Arteritis Virus (EAV) can be transmitted by the respiratory and the venereal routes. Acutely affected horses excrete the virus in respiratory secretions; aerosol transmission is common when horses are gathered at racetracks, sales, shows and other events. This virus has also been found in urine and feces during the acute stage. It occurs in the reproductive tract of acutely infected mares, and both acutely and chronically infected stallions. In mares, EAV can be found in vaginal and uterine secretions, as well as in the ovary and oviduct, for a short period after infection. Mares infected late in pregnancy may give birth to infected foals. Stallions shed EAV in semen, and can carry the virus for years. Transmission from stallions can occur by natural service or artificial insemination. Some carriers may eventually clear the infection. True carrier states have not been reported in mares, geldings or sexually immature colts; however, EAV can occasionally be found for up to six months in the reproductive tract of older prepubertal colts. Equine arteritis virus can be transmitted on fomites including equipment, and may be spread mechanically by humans or animals. Semen remains infectious after freezing. Prevention Acutely infected horses should be isolated to prevent transmission in secretions and excretions. Precautions should also be taken to avoid spreading the virus on fomites. EAV is readily inactivated by detergents, common disinfectants and lipid solvents. No specific treatment is available; however, most healthy horses other than young foals recover on their own. Good nursing and symptomatic treatment should be used in severe cases. Vaccination can also help contain outbreaks. Venereal transmission can be controlled by good management and vaccination. To protect pregnant mares from abortion, they should be separated from other horses and maintained in small groups according to their predicted foaling dates. Newly acquired horses should be isolated for 3 to 4 weeks. Vaccination appears to prevent uninfected stallions from becoming long term carriers. Stallions that are not carriers should be vaccinated before the start of the breeding season. Prepubertal colts are given the vaccine when they are 6-12 months old. Carrier stallions are identified and bred only to well vaccinated or naturally seropositive mares. Similarly, semen that contains EAV should be used only in these mares. Because first-time vaccinates may shed field viruses for a short time after exposure, these mares should be isolated from seronegative horses, particularly pregnant mares, for three weeks after breeding. Naturally infected mares and those that are not first-time vaccinates are isolated for 24-48 hours, to protect other horses from the viruses present in semen. Carrier stallions should be housed where they can be physically separated from uninfected horses; in one case, stallions apparently became infected by indirect exposure to semen. However, this appears to be rare. EAV is sensitive to sunlight and low humidity, and uninfected stallions have been kept near carriers for years without infection. Excellent hygiene and decontamination of fomites should be practiced when breeding infected horses or collecting semen.

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This culture test detects the presence Taylorella equigenitalis by culturing, the most common bacteria responsible for the Contagious Equine Metritis. Sample requirements 2 or 3 genital swabs - swab Amies transport with charcoal. Clitoral fossa – use standard swab with Amies culture and transport system Clitoral sinuses swabbed – use Minitip Amies culture and transport system. Openings to the sinuses are on the dorsum of the clitoris - the central one is usually always present whereas the lateral sinuses may be multiple or not be present. Swab all that are present. Either cervical (closed cervix if pregnant or mid-cycle) or endometrial (while in estrus or true anestrus) swab – use guarded 25” swab. NOTE: Schedule all CEM culture submissions in advance with the laboratory. Multiple culture instances are often required and timing is critical. Official CEM testing generally involves multiple sets of samples taken on multiple days. Exact sampling schedules need to be confirmed with appropriate regulatory agencies in advance of testing. Horses cannot be tested while being treated and for a period of time after treatment with antibiotics. Turnaround time 14  working days   What is Contagious Equine Metritis? Contagious equine metritis is an inflammatory disease of the proximal and distal reproductive tract of the mare caused by Taylorella equigenitalis, which usually results in temporary infertility. It is a nonsystemic infection, the effects of which are restricted to the reproductive tract of the mare. Clinical signs When present, general clinical signs include endometritis, cervicitis and vaginitis of variable severity and a slight to copious mucopurulent vaginal discharge. In mares there are two states of infection: The active state in which the main outward sign is a vulval discharge, which may range from very mild to extremely profuse. The carrier state in which there are no outward signs of infection. However, the mare remains capable of transmitting infection because the bacteria are established on the surface of the clitoris, the clitoral fossa and sinuses and, in the case of pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa, sometimes in the urethra and bladder. In stallions: (‘stallion’ means mating stallions, teasers and stallions used for AI) Infected stallions do not usually show clinical signs of infection but the bacteria are present on their penis, sheath and. These stallions can infect mares during mating, teasing or AI. Occasionally, the bacteria may invade the stallion’s sex glands, causing pus and bacteria to contaminate the semen. Transmission Direct venereal contact during natural mating presents the highest risk for the transmission of equigenitalis from a contaminated stallion or an infected mare. Direct venereal transmission can also take place by artificial insemination using infective raw, chilled and possibly frozen semen. Indirectly, infection may be acquired through fomite transmission, manual contamination, inadequate observance of appropriate biosecurity measures at the time of breeding and at semen- collection centres. Stallions can become asymptomatic carriers of equigenitalis. The principal sites of colonisation by the bacterium are the urogenital membranes (urethral fossa, urethral sinus, terminal urethra and penile sheath). The sites of persistence of equigenitalis in the majority of carrier mares are the clitoral sinuses and fossa and infrequently the uterus. Foals born of carrier mares may also become carriers. The organism can infect equid species other than horses, e.g. donkeys. Prevention If infection with equigenitalis is suspected in any mare, stallion or teaser on the basis of clinical signs, all breeding activities must cease immediately. The affected horse(s) should be isolated and swabbed by the attending veterinary surgeon. Arrange swabbing of any at risk horse. Disinfect all equipment used for breeding procedures. Inform all owners of mares booked to the stallion, including any which have already left the premises; Inform people to whom semen from the stallion has been sent; Arrange for one straw from every ejaculate of stored semen from infected and at risk stallions to be tested by a laboratory. If a straw from any ejaculate is infected, all straws from that ejaculate should be destroyed; Any at risk pregnant mare must be foaled in isolation. The placenta must be incinerated. Foals born to these mares should be swabbed three times, at intervals of not less than seven days, before three months of age. Any mares with an abnormal vaginal exudate, or returning to oestrus prematurely, should be investigated and managed as though infected with equigenitalis until results of laboratory testing prove otherwise. If carriers of equigenitalis are detected, the organism can be eliminated by treatment with systemic and/or local antibiotics combined with antiseptic washing of the sites of persistence in the mare and the stallion.

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Screening of 3 pathogens responsible for Contagious Equine Metritis (CEM): Taylorella equigenitalis by Culture over 7 days Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Culture  Klebsiela pneumonia, Culture   Sample 2 or 3 genital swabs in swab Amies transport medium with charcoal. Clitoral fossa – use standard swab with Amies culture and transport system Clitoral sinuses swabbed – use Minitip Amies culture and transport system. Openings to the sinuses are on the dorsum of the clitoris - the central one is usually always present whereas the lateral sinuses may be multiple or not be present. Swab all that are present. Either cervical (closed cervix if pregnant or mid-cycle) or endometrial (while in estrus or true anestrus) swab – use guarded 25” swab. NOTE: Schedule all CEM culture submissions in advance with the laboratory. Multiple culture instances are often required and timing is critical. Official CEM testing generally involves multiple sets of samples taken on multiple days. Exact sampling schedules need to be confirmed with appropriate regulatory agencies in advance of testing. Horses cannot be tested while being treated and for a period of time after treatment with antibiotics. Turnaround time 7  working days   What is Contagious Equine Metritis? Contagious equine metritis is an inflammatory disease of the proximal and distal reproductive tract of the mare caused by Taylorella equigenitalis, which usually results in temporary infertility. It is a nonsystemic infection, the effects of which are restricted to the reproductive tract of the mare. Clinical signs When present, general clinical signs include endometritis, cervicitis and vaginitis of variable severity and a slight to copious mucopurulent vaginal discharge. In mares there are two states of infection: The active state in which the main outward sign is a vulval discharge, which may range from very mild to extremely profuse. The carrier state in which there are no outward signs of infection. However, the mare remains capable of transmitting infection because the bacteria are established on the surface of the clitoris, the clitoral fossa and sinuses and, in the case of pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa, sometimes in the urethra and bladder. In stallions: (‘stallion’ means mating stallions, teasers and stallions used for AI) Infected stallions do not usually show clinical signs of infection but the bacteria are present on their penis, sheath and. These stallions can infect mares during mating, teasing or AI. Occasionally, the bacteria may invade the stallion’s sex glands, causing pus and bacteria to contaminate the semen. Transmission Direct venereal contact during natural mating presents the highest risk for the transmission of equigenitalis from a contaminated stallion or an infected mare. Direct venereal transmission can also take place by artificial insemination using infective raw, chilled and possibly frozen semen. Indirectly, infection may be acquired through fomite transmission, manual contamination, inadequate observance of appropriate biosecurity measures at the time of breeding and at semen- collection centres. Stallions can become asymptomatic carriers of equigenitalis. The principal sites of colonisation by the bacterium are the urogenital membranes (urethral fossa, urethral sinus, terminal urethra and penile sheath). The sites of persistence of equigenitalis in the majority of carrier mares are the clitoral sinuses and fossa and infrequently the uterus. Foals born of carrier mares may also become carriers. The organism can infect equid species other than horses, e.g. donkeys. Prevention If infection with equigenitalis is suspected in any mare, stallion or teaser on the basis of clinical signs, all breeding activities must cease immediately. The affected horse(s) should be isolated and swabbed by the attending veterinary surgeon. Arrange swabbing of any at risk horse. Disinfect all equipment used for breeding procedures. Inform all owners of mares booked to the stallion, including any which have already left the premises; Inform people to whom semen from the stallion has been sent; Arrange for one straw from every ejaculate of stored semen from infected and at risk stallions to be tested by a laboratory. If a straw from any ejaculate is infected, all straws from that ejaculate should be destroyed; Any at risk pregnant mare must be foaled in isolation. The placenta must be incinerated. Foals born to these mares should be swabbed three times, at intervals of not less than seven days, before three months of age. Any mares with an abnormal vaginal exudate, or returning to oestrus prematurely, should be investigated and managed as though infected with equigenitalis until results of laboratory testing prove otherwise. If carriers of equigenitalis are detected, the organism can be eliminated by treatment with systemic and/or local antibiotics combined with antiseptic washing of the sites of persistence in the mare and the stallion.

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