Wisconsin mare with rescue history tests positive for strangles

A 15-year-old Quarter Horse mare in Jefferson County, Wisconsin, has tested positive for strangles after developing nasal discharge on March 6, with confirmation reported March 23. According to EDCC Health Watch, published by Equus Magazine on March 26, the mare had come from a local rescue, was exposed at her previous premises, and is now under quarantine. The case appears in the context of continued EDCC-reported strangles activity in the Upper Midwest, including a separate March 5 case in a 2-year-old Quarter Horse gelding in Marquette County, Michigan, where one additional horse was suspected positive and two were exposed. (equusmagazine.com)

Why it matters: For equine veterinarians and practice teams, the Wisconsin case is a reminder that horse movement, rescue intake, and transfers between premises remain practical risk points for strangles introduction. Wisconsin lists strangles among reportable equine diseases, and DATCP directs anyone who suspects a reportable animal disease to contact a state or federal animal health official. AAEP guidance recommends quarantining new arrivals for three weeks while monitoring temperatures, a step that’s especially relevant for rescues, foster networks, and mixed-population barns. (datcp.wi.gov)

What to watch: Watch for any additional linked cases in Jefferson County, updated EDCC alerts, and whether quarantine and intake biosecurity measures at source and destination premises prevent onward spread. (equusmagazine.com)