Wisconsin Equine Strangles Outbreak Identified

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection reported four new cases of equine strangles across Marathon, Waupaca, Brown and Outagamie counties, involving a 5‑year‑old Morgan gelding, a 3‑year‑old Quarter Horse mare, a 16‑year‑old Belgian gelding and a 6‑year‑old Miniature Horse mare. An additional positive case was confirmed in St. Croix County, where a 5‑year‑old Quarter Horse mare tested positive on July 7 and was placed under quarantine.

Strangles, caused by Streptococcus equi subsp. equi, spreads through direct contact or contaminated surfaces and can affect horses that appear healthy. Symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, nasal discharge and difficulty swallowing. Diagnosis relies on PCR testing of nasal swabs or abscess samples, and treatment generally involves supportive care and antibiotics for severe cases. The disease is contagious for at least six weeks after recovery, prompting recommendations for strict biosecurity measures such as quarantining new arrivals and rigorous sanitation to prevent further outbreaks.