On August 7, 2020, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) was informed of a confirmed case of strangles in a 5-year-old Standardbred gelding in the Greater Hamilton area.
Strangles is a highly contagious and serious infection of horses and other equines caused by the bacterium, Streptococcus equi. Testing of other horses in the barn is planned for Monday, and the trainer of the affected horse has scratched his horse that is in to go.
Horse people are reminded to remain vigilant and institute appropriate biosecurity measures and should consult their veterinarians for advice.
The AGCO will monitor the situation and any further developments will be reported.
For more information
Horse People:
Dr. Adam Chambers
Senior Manager of Veterinary Services
(289) 237-3922
Media:
media@agco.ca
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/livestock/horses/facts/03-037.htm
https://aaep.org/sites/default/files/Guidelines/Strangles_Final.pdf