Natural infections of Strongyloides westeri: prevalence in horse foals on several farms in central Kentucky in 1992.

This study examines the prevalence of the Strongyloides westeri parasite in foals in central Kentucky during the first half of 1992. The researchers found the parasite present in 6% of the sampled foals, providing insight into the current state of parasitic infections relative to before the advent of effective antiparasitic drugs.

Study Objective and Method

• The primary goal of the study was to determine the prevalence of a parasite known as Strongyloides westeri in horse foals in central Kentucky. The focus was on understanding the current scale of this type of infection in foals, given that the farms involved in the study were regarded as having excellent deworming programs.
• During the period from February 28 to July 1 in 1992, foal fecal samples were collected and examined for the eggs of the S. westeri parasite. In total, 382 foals, including 364 Thoroughbreds, 16 Standardbreds, one Lippizaner, and one draft-type horse, were involved in the study. The age of the foals at the time of sampling varied between 7 and 63 days, with an average age of 22 days.

Results and Discussion

• The results indicated that 6% (or 22 of 382) of the foals were found to have eggs of the S. westeri parasite. The parasite was found in the foals on 7 out of the 9 (or approximately 78%) farms involved in the study, despite their highly praised deworming programs.
• This research offers a current perspective on the prevalence of the S. westeri parasite in foals. It reveals that despite advancements in medication and deworming programs, parasites still pose a significant health challenge in this setting. The findings imply that the field needs continuous monitoring and improvement in prevention, control, and treatment strategies against parasitic infections.
• Notably, the research also provides a basis for comparing the current situation with historical data before effective antiparasitic drugs were readily available. It suggests that while medications have made a significant impact, complete eradication of the parasite has not been achieved, calling for continuous efforts and vigilance in managing parasitic infections in horse populations.