Quarter Horse in Kalamazoo County Diagnosed with Strangles

A Quarter Horse gelding in Kalamazoo County, Michigan tested positive for strangles, an infection caused by Streptococcus equi subsp. equi. The horse showed nasal discharge and facial swelling on June 11 and is now recovering. Nine additional horses on the premises have been identified as exposed.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture confirmed the diagnosis through PCR testing of a nasal swab. Treatment typically involves antibiotics for severe cases, while most horses recover within three to four weeks. A vaccine exists but is not always fully protective. Authorities advise quarantine of new arrivals and strict hygiene measures to limit the spread of the disease.