We do still see occasional outbreaks of this condition. In Queensland it is no longer a 'notifiable' disease, but in some other states this is not the case and recently there have been properties quarantined after outbreaks have been discovered.
There is a Strangles vaccine (pink label) available which can be purchased individually or as part of a 2 in 1 (with Tetanus Toxoid, red label). The problem with Strangles is that there are several different strains and the vaccine only covers the most common variants of them. The other issue is that the vaccine is not as strong (in producing a strong immunity) as the Tetanus one, and if your horse is likely to be exposed (horses that mix with other horses other than their paddock friends), then the vaccine needs to be given every 6 months as recommended by the manufacturer.
All this being said, if your horse is exposed to Strangles, being vaccinated may prevent this disease or lessen the symptoms.
If your horse is exhibiting some or all of the following symptoms contact us on 5543 1213 or 0409 884 377 for diagnosis and treatment:
- high temperature
- swelling in the throat area leading to abscessation
- nasal discharge
- lethargy or coughing &/or inappetance (not interested in eating)
If you suspect Strangles, immediately put biosecurity measures in place to prevent other horses contracting it. Isolate your horse & equipment used for horse, disinfect everything, and maintain biosecurity measures. Fortunately we are all proficient in this area after EI.
Even if your horse's condition is not diagnosed as Strangles, it may still be contagious and should be treated accordingly. Why would we want to see other horses suffer?
