Oregon horse case puts pigeon fever back on clinicians’ radar

An Oregon horse in Benton County has tested positive for pigeon fever, according to the Equine Disease Communication Center, citing the state department of agriculture. The case was confirmed April 24, 2026, and the horse had been imported from California about two weeks before diagnosis. EDCC lists the case as an official quarantine at a private facility, with one confirmed and one exposed horse. Pigeon fever is caused by Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis and is best known for causing external abscesses, though more serious internal infections can occur. (equinediseasecc.org)

Why it matters: For equine veterinarians and mixed-animal practices, the case is a reminder to review intake protocols for incoming horses, especially those arriving from endemic regions. AAEP guidance says new arrivals should be isolated for at least 7 to 14 days in lower-risk situations, with longer isolation if infection is known at the origin facility. The disease has historically been associated with dry, arid areas in the West, particularly California, but experts say cases have been reported more widely in recent years, including in Oregon. Biosecurity matters because the organism can spread through wound contamination, flies, fomites, and contaminated soil, and rare human infections have been reported. (aaep.org)

What to watch: Watch for any additional Oregon alerts this spring and summer, when insect activity and environmental contamination can increase transmission pressure. (thehorse.com)