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Contagious equine metritis in Australia
Journal of Reproduction and Fertility. Supplement
|January 1, 1979
Summary
Contagious Equine Metritis (CEM) outbreaks in Australia highlight the need for improved stallion treatment, particularly concerning the urethral fossa diverticulum. Routine testing and biosecurity measures are crucial for preventing further spread of this equine disease.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Equine Infectious Diseases
- Animal Reproduction
Background:
- Contagious Equine Metritis (CEM) is a highly contagious bacterial sexually transmitted infection affecting horses.
- CEM was first identified in Australia in 1977, leading to significant disease control efforts.
- The disease has been detected on multiple farms across several Australian states.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the epidemiology of Contagious Equine Metritis (CEM) in Australia.
- To describe control procedures implemented on an affected farm.
- To identify challenges in CEM treatment and prevention strategies.
Main Methods:
- Epidemiological investigation of CEM cases.
- Implementation and evaluation of control measures on a single affected farm.
- Clinical assessment and treatment protocols for infected stallions.
Main Results:
- CEM has been diagnosed in 24 mares and 2 stallions across 6 farms in 3 Australian states.
- Effective treatment of one infected stallion was challenging, potentially due to inadequate care of the urethral fossa diverticulum.
- Disease introduction has necessitated a review of control and prevention strategies.
Conclusions:
- Inadequate treatment of the urethral fossa diverticulum may hinder stallion recovery from CEM.
- The long-term consequences of CEM introduction may lead to routine bacteriological screening of horses.
- Enhanced biosecurity and diagnostic testing are essential to minimize the risk of inter-farm CEM transmission.