An outbreak of contagious equine metritis in 1977 and its effect the following season.

This is a research article studying the outbreak of contagious equine metritis in Newmarket in 1977, assessing its impact on horse fertility, and exploring the effectiveness of a swabbing program in reducing further cases.

Overview of the Study

The research article explores an outbreak of contagious equine metritis, a sexually transmitted disease in horses, which happened in Newmarket in 1977. The primary focus is on understanding the impact of this disease on the fertility of 20 infected stallions.

• The research investigates the reproductive consequences of the disease in male horses, essential for understanding the broader impacts on horse populations.
• Moreover, by analyzing this specific outbreak, researchers can gather valuable insights into how the disease spreads and evolves over time.

Identification of Carrier Mares

The research also involves a swabbing procedure to identify carrier mares that were preserving the organism primarily in the clitoral area.

• The process of detecting carrier mares is vital to control the spread of the disease.
• Such mares might not show symptoms, but they can transmit the disease to stallions and other healthy mares.

Effectiveness of Swabbing Programme

Finally, the study evaluates the impact of the swabbing program introduced after the outbreak, which significantly reduced the incidence of new cases in 1978 to just 3 mares and 1 stallion.

• By examining the results of the swabbing program, the researchers affirm the necessity of proactive health measures in combating such diseases.
• This successful reduction of new cases showcases the program’s successful implementation, providing valuable lessons for managing similar outbreaks.