The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has been informed that three additional horses tested positive for Strangles this week in the affected barn at Shamrock Training Centre. Restrictions remain in effect.
In addition, two other Standardbreds unloaded in Ontario were identified as being shipped with the horse that originally tested positive at Shamrock Training Centre. AGCO understands that these horses were isolated away from other horses immediately on arrival but as a measure of caution made these horses ineligible until they have confirmed negative tests.
The AGCO has noted that Standardbred horses at Red Shores Racetrack in PEI have tested positive for Strangles.
Strangles is a highly contagious and serious infection of horses and other equines caused by the bacterium, Streptococcus equi.
Additionally, on February 18, 2021, the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) reported two confirmed cases of Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy (EHM) caused by equine herpevirus-1 (EHV-1) in the Regional Municipalities of Peel and Niagara, ON. The AGCO reminds industry participants to use extreme caution when considering whether to bring new horses to a facility. It is recommended that horse people implement the highest level of biosecurity measures if they bring in horses from a facility with or associated with a recent or active infectious disease outbreak. EHV-1 and Strangles are highly contagious infectious diseases that may cause significant sickness and even death of horses and may cause prolonged economic hardship for participants and the industry. AGCO recommends that industry participants consult with their AGCO licensed veterinarian on these matters.
Horse people are reminded to remain vigilant and institute appropriate biosecurity measures and should consult their veterinarian for advice.
The AGCO will monitor these situations and any further developments will be reported.
For more information
Horse People:
Dr. Pamela Chesterfield
Manager of Veterinary Services
(519) 551-1037
Dr. Adam Chambers
Senior Manager of Veterinary Services
(289) 237-3922
Media:
416 326-3202
media@agco.ca
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/livestock/horses/facts/03-037.htm
https://aaep.org/sites/default/files/Guidelines/Strangles_Final.pdf