What Is Equine Viral Arteritis? Prevention Guide

Equine Viral Arteritis (EVA) is a highly contagious and potentially severe viral disease affecting horses. It is caused by the equine arteritis virus (EAV), which primarily targets the respiratory and vascular systems of equines. The disease can lead to significant economic losses in the equine industry due to its impact on breeding and the health of affected horses. Understanding EVA, its symptoms, transmission, and prevention strategies is crucial for horse owners, breeders, and veterinarians to mitigate its spread and protect equine populations.

Introduction to Equine Viral Arteritis

EVA is characterized by a range of clinical signs, from mild to severe, including fever, depression, loss of appetite, and swelling of the legs, scrotum, and prepuce in stallions. Mares may experience abortion, and the disease can also affect young foals, leading to severe illness and potentially death. The virus is primarily spread through direct contact with infected horses’ respiratory secretions, urine, or semen, highlighting the need for stringent biosecurity measures, especially in breeding operations.

Clinical Signs and Diagnosis

The clinical signs of EVA can vary widely among infected horses. Some horses may show no symptoms at all, while others may develop severe disease. Common signs include high fever, which can last for several days, followed by the development of edema (swelling) in the legs, scrotum, and prepuce in males. Abortion in pregnant mares is a significant concern, as it can occur without any preceding signs of illness in the mare. Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of clinical signs, serological tests to detect antibodies against EAV, and viral isolation or PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) to directly detect the virus.

Transmission and Epidemiology

The equine arteritis virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through various routes. Direct contact with nasal secretions or urine from infected horses is a common mode of transmission. Venereal transmission, through breeding with an infected stallion, is also a significant risk factor, especially in breeding operations. Indirect transmission through contaminated equipment, clothing, or hands can also occur. The virus can survive in the environment for a period, further increasing the risk of transmission. Understanding these transmission dynamics is key to implementing effective prevention and control measures.

Prevention and Control Strategies

Preventing the spread of EVA requires a multifaceted approach that includes vaccination, biosecurity measures, and careful management of breeding operations. Vaccination against EAV is available and can provide significant protection against the disease. However, the decision to vaccinate should be made in consultation with a veterinarian, considering factors such as the horse’s risk of exposure and breeding status. Biosecurity measures, such as isolating new horses, using personal protective equipment when handling potentially infected horses, and ensuring that all equipment is properly disinfected, are crucial in preventing the spread of the virus.

Vaccination and Biosecurity

Vaccination is a powerful tool in the prevention of EVA. Vaccines are available that can provide immunity against the disease, although their use must be carefully considered. For breeding operations, vaccinating stallions and mares can protect against the disease and prevent its spread. Biosecurity measures are equally important and should include protocols for isolating new arrivals, disinfecting equipment and surfaces, and using personal protective equipment when handling horses that may be infected.

For horse owners and breeders, understanding the risks associated with EVA and taking proactive steps to prevent its spread is essential. This includes being aware of the health status of horses they are buying or breeding with, ensuring that their facilities have robust biosecurity protocols in place, and considering vaccination as part of their disease prevention strategy.