Equine viral encephalomyelitis in Canada: a review of known and potential causes.

The research article focuses on assessing and reviewing the known and potential causes of the neurological disease called equine viral encephalomyelitis in horses in Canada. Part of the study involves a comprehensive review on established causes including Rabies and equine herpesvirus type I, as well as exploring the possibility of other active arboviruses as potential disease agents.

Overview of the Research

• This research article is an encompassing examination of equine viral encephalomyelitis within Canadian territories. The study critically reviews the proven causes—such as Rabies, equine herpesvirus type I, eastern and western encephalomyelitis viruses—while also delving into the potential causes that could play a role in the development of the said disease in equines.

Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Clinical Signs and Diagnosis

• The article discusses in great detail the existing data regarding the epidemiology (the study of how often and where diseases occur and how they are transmitted), which involves understanding how these viruses spread and how these disease occurrences impact the equine population in Canada. This involves evaluating data regarding the rate and locations of these disease occurrences.
• The pathogenesis (disease development) of equine viral encephalomyelitis is also discussed. It involves understanding how the aforementioned viruses cause disease in horses once they are infected. The article seeks to explain the progression from infection to symptoms, and how the disease further develops and affects the animal.
• It provides extensive information regarding the clinical signs or symptoms recorded or researched pertaining to the disease caused by these viruses, helping veterinarians and equine handlers identify potential cases.
• The article also delves into the diagnosis methods, providing information about how each of these diseases can be effectively identified to ensure early and accurate treatment.

Potential Causes of Equine Viral Encephalomyelitis

• There’s a significant portion of the paper that opens the discussion about arboviruses active in Canada, including Powassan, St. Louis encephalitis, snowshoe hare, and Jamestown Canyon viruses. While these viruses are known to cause neurological diseases in humans, the study considers whether these viruses might cross over and cause similar neurological disease, particularly encephalomyelitis, in horses.