Evolution of equine infection control programs.

The research article discusses the historical evolution of equine infection control programs, highlighting key advancements and challenges, including bacterial resistance and managing diseases such as equine influenza or equine herpesvirus 1.

Origins of Infection Control Programs

• The study emphasizes that the beginning of the science of infection control can be traced back to 1847 when a physician named Semmelweis mandated hand scrubbing between patients. He demonstrated that such a simple procedure significantly reduced patient morbidity and mortality.
• By the late 19th century, greater understanding of microorganisms and their role in diseases spurred efforts to eliminate and control these harmful organisms.

Advancements in Infection Control Processes

• By 1910, practices of using sterile instruments, gowns, masks and gloves became a standard in large university human hospitals.
• Isolation of patients, both human and veterinary, with contagious diseases also became a routine measure.
• The advent of vaccines played a massive role in controlling many epidemic viral diseases, whilst antimicrobial drugs provided effective treatment for several devastating bacterial diseases.

Challenges and Ongoing Developments

• The paper acknowledges the problem of bacterial resistance, particularly in reference to Salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus in horses, as an impactful issue which is still present today.
• Despite vaccination decreasing the number of susceptible animals, diseases like equine influenza and equine herpesvirus 1 continue to pose significant challenges within large equine veterinary hospitals.
• The development of specific equine isolation facilities and improved barn cleaning methods were a response to these hurdles.
• Mandatory procedures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, such as handwashing or the use of disinfectant hand wipes, were also implemented.
• A significant part of the current equine infection control programs involves monitoring of antimicrobial resistance and the strategic use of restricted antimicrobial drugs.