Equine Influenza A RTqPCR

Pathogen test RT-qPCR test: Detects the genome (RNA) of Equine Influenza Virus Type A. Equine Influenza is a disease listed...

€61.50

Sample Requirements

1 nasopharyngeal swab (see AAEP guidelines)
5 mL blood - K3 EDTA tube

Send your sample by regular mail or express delivery to:

Equigerminal Lab HIESE
Rua da Quinta do Sobreiro Nº25
3230-343 Penela, Portugal

Turnaround Time

2 to 5 working days

About the test

Equine Influenza is a disease listed in the WOAH (formerly OIE) Terrestrial Animal Health Code, and confirmed cases must be reported according to international regulations.

What is Equine Influenza?

Equine Influenza (EI) is a highly contagious respiratory disease affecting horses, donkeys and mules.

It is caused by Influenza A viruses (H7N7 and H3N8) of the Orthomyxoviridae family.

The disease spreads rapidly in susceptible horse populations, particularly during transport or when horses are housed in close contact. The incubation period is typically 1 to 3 days.

Why test?

The RT-qPCR test provides rapid and accurate detection of Equine Influenza Virus Type A and is recommended for horses showing clinical signs of respiratory disease or during suspected outbreaks.

Clinical signs

Clinical signs may include:

Fever
Harsh, dry cough
Nasal discharge
Depression
Loss of appetite
Muscle pain
Weakness

Although most horses recover within approximately two weeks, coughing may persist for longer and full recovery of athletic performance may take up to six months.

Transmission

Highly contagious, EI is spread by contact with infected animals, which in coughing excrete the virus.
Animals can begin to excrete the virus as they develop a fever before showing clinical signs.
It can also be spread by mechanical transmission of the virus on clothing, equipment, brushes etc carried by people working with horses.

Prevention

Vaccination: Reduces disease severity and speeds recovery, though it may not always prevent infection due to strain variability.
Biosecurity: Quarantine new or sick horses, use separate water buckets/hoses, and disinfect areas and equipment.
Management: Designate specific handlers for sick horses and implement foot baths to minimize cross-contamination.

Results

The RT-qPCR test detects the genome (RNA) of Equine Influenza Virus Type A.

Additional information

For sample collection, follow the current AAEP guidelines for nasopharyngeal swab collection.