ANNAPOLIS – State officials are urging horse owners to take precautions after reports of strangles, a highly contagious bacterial disease affecting the upper respiratory tract in equids.
Strangles, caused by Streptococcus equi equi, remains one of the most common infectious diseases of horses worldwide. It spreads easily through direct contact with infected horses as well as contaminated equipment, water troughs, feed buckets or even clothing.
Clinical signs include fever, lethargy, nasal discharge, anorexia and swollen lymph nodes that may form abscesses and rupture, often leading to severe breathing and swallowing difficulties.
The Maryland Department of Agriculture emphasized that prevention begins with biosecurity practices. Sick horses should be isolated immediately, and new arrivals should be quarantined for at least three weeks. Veterinarians recommend wearing gloves when handling potentially sick animals and disinfecting feed and water equipment regularly.
Horse owners are encouraged to recognize symptoms early and seek veterinary assistance. State officials also require veterinarians to report cases of strangles within 48 hours of diagnosis.
“Prompt isolation, strict sanitation, and vaccination when appropriate are the best tools we have to reduce spread,” said Dr. Jennifer Trout, Maryland’s state veterinarian.
In the event of an outbreak, officials advise separating animals into three groups: red for sick horses, amber for those exposed, and green for horses with no contact. Movement between groups should be prevented to avoid further transmission.
A vaccine is available, though managing the disease primarily depends on vigilance and swift action from horse owners, caregivers and veterinarians.
For more information, horse owners can contact the Maryland Department of Agriculture Animal Health Program.
