Horse Tests Positive for Strangles in Santa Rosa County, Florida

A horse at a private facility in Santa Rosa County, Florida, has tested positive for strangles, an infectious bacterial disease of horses caused by Streptococcus equi. Four additional horses on the premises have been identified as exposed. This case is the 18th confirmed strangles incident in Florida for the year 2026, according to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Strangles spreads through direct contact with infected equids or contaminated surfaces. Affected horses may show fever, swollen lymph nodes, nasal discharge, coughing, muscle swelling, or difficulty swallowing. Diagnosis is performed with PCR testing of nasal swabs, washes, or abscess samples. Treatment typically involves supportive care and antibiotics for severe cases, while biosecurity measures such as quarantine and rigorous hygiene are recommended to contain outbreaks. The disease is usually self‑limiting, with most horses recovering fully within three to four weeks, and a vaccine is available though not always fully protective.