Two Alberta Equids Test Positive for Equine Influenza
Clinical signs of equine influenza infection can include a high fever (up to 106°F); a dry, hacking cough; depression; weakness; anorexia; serous (watery) nasal discharge; and slightly enlarged lymph nodes. | Photo: Alexandra Beckstett/The Horse
An attending veterinarian has confirmed two equids at a boarding facility in Strathcona County, Alberta, Canada, with equine influenza. Twelve additional horses at the facility were exposed.

The affected equids include a 4-year-old Welsh-cross mare and a 5-year-old Welsh-cross gelding. The gelding began coughing on Dec. 12, and the mare showed signs of nasal discharge the next day. Both horses were confirmed positive on Dec. 16. Neither horse was vaccinated.

A voluntary quarantine was enacted for equids at the facility.

About Equine Influenza

Equine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease that infects horses, ponies, and other equids, such as donkeys, mules, and zebras. The virus that causes it is spread via saliva and respiratory secretions from infected horses. Horses are commonly exposed via horse-to-horse contact; aerosol transmission from coughing and sneezing; and contact with human’s contaminated hands, shoes, or clothes or contaminated tack, buckets, or other equipment

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