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Enterococcus durans infection and diarrhea in Thoroughbred foals
Natasha J Williams1, Nathan M Slovis1, Nimet S Browne1
1Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, Lexington, Kentucky, USA.
Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine
|October 26, 2022
Summary
Enterococcus durans infection was significantly associated with diarrhea in neonatal foals. This finding highlights the need for improved biosecurity measures on breeding farms to prevent foal disease transmission.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Equine Health
- Microbiology
Background:
- Diarrhea is a major cause of illness and death in newborn foals.
- Identifying the specific causes of foal diarrhea is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the link between diarrhea and the presence of Enterococcus durans in neonatal foals.
- To assess the role of E. durans as an enteropathogen in foal diarrhea on a Kentucky breeding farm.
Main Methods:
- A prospective observational study was conducted on 59 Thoroughbred foals and their dams.
- Foals and broodmares were tested for E. durans and other enteropathogens within 10 days of foaling.
- The occurrence of E. durans was compared between foals with and without diarrhea.
Main Results:
- Seven out of 59 foals developed diarrhea.
- E. durans was detected in 71% of foals with diarrhea versus 0% of foals without diarrhea (P < .01).
- E. durans was also detected in dams of affected foals, suggesting potential transmission.
Conclusions:
- Enterococcus durans detection is strongly associated with diarrhea in neonatal foals.
- Enhanced biosecurity protocols are recommended to control E. durans transmission and reduce foal morbidity.
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