Update on Streptococcus equi subsp equi infections.

The research article provides an update on Streptococcus equi subsp equi infections, commonly known as strangles, in horses. It is focused on diagnostics, treatment, and biosecurity management methods for this disease.

Disease Overview

• Strangles is a highly contagious disease in horses caused by the bacterium Streptococcus equi subsp equi.
• It stirs great concern among horse owners due to its frequency, high level of morbidity (illness), and the strict control measures required to prevent its spread.
• Although the mortality rate is generally low, the disease often results in significant sickness in infected horses.
• The control measures, especially quarantine and movement restrictions, can be frustrating for horse owners and other responsible parties.

Objectives of the Research

• The article seeks to provide comprehensive and clinically relevant information about various aspects of strangles.
• It aims to equip veterinarians with updated knowledge on the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.
• Another objective is to guide vets on how to effectively manage biosecurity to prevent the spread of strangles and manage its potential impacts.

Diagnosis and Treatment

• The specific methods or strategies for diagnosing and treating strangles are not detailed in the abstract, but it is implied that they would be discussed in the full article.
• As this is a bacterial infection, it could be inferred that the diagnosis might involve collecting and testing samples from the infected horse, while treatment may include antibiotics or other antimicrobial drugs.

Biosecurity Management

• The abstract suggests that there will be a focus on biosecurity, which involves practices designed to prevent the introduction and spread of the disease within a population of horses.
• Such practices can include isolation of infected or potentially infected horses, restricting movement of horses, and disinfection of equipment and environments.