The North Dakota State University Extension Service is encouraging horse owners to get their animals tested for equine infectious anemia (EIA).

“Although there are usually less than 100 cases of EIA reported annually, recent reports of a positive horse in Becker County, Minn., and 12 positive horses in northwestern Nebraska earlier this month serve as a reminder to test for EIA,” says Carrie Hammer, North Dakota State University Extension Service equine specialist.

EIA is caused by a virus that infects horses, mules, and donkeys. It usually is spread by large biting insects such as horse and deer flies, but it also can be spread by sharing blood-contaminated objects such as needles and syringes.

Clinical signs vary with the stage of the disease. They can include fever, depression, weight loss, and swelling of the lower abdomen and legs. Chronically infected horses may appear normal between episodes