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European equine infection detected in US
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State vets and the USDA are investigating recent cases of CEM in the United States
Twelve stallions and three mares in the US have now tested positive for contagious equine metritis (CEM), a reproductive disease in horses typically not found in the United States. Difficult to detect, this disease has the potential to have a very negative effect on the equine industry by reducing breeding capability.
First discovered in Europe in 1977, it was not seen in the US outside of quarantine stations until 1979. This is the second known US outbreak and dates to 2006 when 3 Lipizzaner stallions were imported to Wisconsin from Eastern Europe. These stallions tested positive after arrival, but before breeding.
A contagious bacterial infection, CEM is transmitted between stallions and mares during mating. In addition, it can be transmitted by contaminated artificial insemination (AI) equipment. Stallions typically show no signs of the illness, acting simply as carriers. As such, they can carry and transit the bacteria for years. Mares, likewise often appear outwardly healthy, but may develop an infection of the uterine lining. Such infections often prevent pregancies from occuring or, less frequently,may lead to spontaneous termination of the pregnancy. Often, the has been either a period or a pattern of infertility before a breeder begins to make a connection and begin to investigate the cause. Once identified, CEM is treatable with disinfectants and antibiotics, although it may take months for the bacteria to be completely eliminated from the uterus. Once the horse tests negative, breeding may be resumed.
The most recently diagnosed horse is a 26-year old Saddlebred in Wisconsin, now quarantined. Like many of the other identified cases, this stallion picked up the infection through an artificial insemination center. However this stallion was at a different facility and had no contact with any of the other previously diagnosed stallions.
The investigation of the current outbreak by state and federal animal health personal so far has touched at least 608 horses in 45 states. Breeding records and movement history are the primary resources for the analysis. As exposed animals are identified, their owners are contacted by officials. Animals do not need to be tested if they are not contacted by animal health officials.
There is no evidence CEM poses a health risk to humans or to the general horse population.
Breeders should be aware of the renewed presence of CEM in the United States. Proper quarantine of imported stock is the number one means of prevention. Additionally, the first three mares bred to a stallion of foreign origin should be quarantined and tested.
Maintaining a clean breeding environment - for example, disposable gloves changed between horses and tools disinfected between uses - is the single most important precaution an individual breeder can take. Breeders should consult their local veterinarian or equine reproductive specialist for other precautions and/or testing recommended in their area.
APHIS Fact Sheet (2005)
For other writings by Lori Roets:
www.loriroets.com
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