Help us to conquer this equine plague

Strangles

The disease
Strangles is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus equi and is the most commonly diagnosed infectious disease of horses worldwide. Clinical signs include fever, profuse nasal discharge and abscessed lymph nodes of the head and neck. The swelling of these lymph nodes may, in severe cases, restrict the airway, hence the name ‘strangles’. Scientists at the Animal Health Trust have discovered that S. equi has genetic characteristics typically found in Yersinia pestis – the causative agent of human plague, which also causes lymph node abscesses. Although S. equi does not present a risk to people, it could be said to represent the equine equivalent of human plague.

Strangles not only causes great pain and distress to horses but in some outbreaks can kill up to 10% of the animals infected. It can also be an economic disaster for affected yards which often have to shut down for months. Getting rid of Strangles depends on new and pioneering research.

Research at the Animal Health Trust
Scientists at the AHT are currently developing blood tests capable of identifying long-term carriers of Strangles. This will enable us to reduce disease spread. Safe and effective Strangles vaccines are also being designed which will benefit all individuals and groups with an interest in equine health and welfare.

Once vaccine product from our research was recently found to be safe on intramuscular administration to horses and we are now raising funds to continue the development of this exciting new Strangles vaccine.

How you can help
The AHT and The British Horse Society have joined forces to launch a campaign to increase awareness of Strangles and raise vital funds. Together they plan to raise £250,000 to accelerate research into the development of diagnosis and prevention – ultimately to eliminate the disease. Your donation can help us reach this crucial target.

HRH Princess Royal
“This is the beginning of a serious campaign that could make a real difference in welfare and economic terms to those involved  in the equine industry.”

AHT Chief Executive Peter Webbon
“Strangles must be beaten. We believe a solution can be found through our research programme. We urge everyone to help us and the BHS to end the suffering of horses and ponies caused by Strangles.”

BHS Chief Executive Graham Cory
“We have a golden opportunity to stamp out this terrible disease. If the money needed to research can be raised, we are confident a fully effective vaccine will be found to stem the spread of Strangles.”

Eventing legend Lucinda Green
“The Animal Health Trust and The British Horse Society are tackling Strangles – the equestrian world must do its best to support them. Strangles is a problem we can no longer afford to ignore. Every horse owner should be aware of the threat and be prepared to join in the fight against it.”

Top show jumper Nick Skelton
“Strangles is a terrible disease that causes great distress to horses. I fully support The British Horse Society and The Animal Health Trust in their efforts to combat Strangles.”


More information:

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