Equine infectious anaemia: investigations continue in Cornwall.

This research discusses the investigation into a case of equine infectious anaemia (EIA) that affected a 10-year-old gelding in Cornwall, UK. Additionally, it mentions a case of equine viral arteritis (EVA) identified in a stallion in Gloucestershire, marking the first appearance of these diseases in the UK since December 2010.

Equine Infectious Anaemia Investigation

• According to this report, 25 horses and ponies were put under restriction on a property in Cornwall when an EIA case was confirmed on October 3.
• The affected being, a 10-year-old gelding, was diagnosed based on the Coggins test performed by AHVLA’s Weybridge laboratory.
• The horse displayed clinical signs of anaemia, which led to the test, and it was euthanased post-confirmation of EIA.
• This incident is significant as it’s the first EIA case confirmed in the UK since December 2010, leading to an ongoing investigation into the disease’s origins.
• Swabs were also taken from the 25 horses that had contact with the affected gelding. Although the initial test results were negative, some are still pending. European Union regulations necessitate a 90-day monitoring period for these animals.

Equine Viral Arteritis Case

• On October 4, a case of equine viral arteritis (EVA) was confirmed in a stallion located in Gloucestershire. This case is also the first of its kind in the UK since December 2010.
• The affected horse reportedly hadn’t been used for breeding since its arrival in the UK, in April. It is to remain under breeding restrictions until testing shows it to be virus-free.
• A routine pre-purchase examination conducted on August 20 found the horse to be seropositive, indicating the presence of antibodies in its blood serum. This discovery led to the initiation of restrictions on the animal.
• The official report to the OIE noted that there were 10 other animals susceptible to EVA on the premises.
• Confirmation of the equine arteritis virus presence was received on October 4, following semen test results.