New Diagnostic Blood Test for Strangles

A new blood test to diagnose Strangles is now available. It has been developed as part of the ‘Breaking the Strangles Hold’ campaign that was launched by the Animal Health Trust and The British Horse Society in February 2007.

The campaign has two main aims: to raise awareness among owners, riders and anyone involved in the health and welfare of horses, and to generate funds to support research that will ultimately eradicate Strangles.
The new blood test identifies horses that have recently been exposed to Strangles. It is ideal for screening horses prior to movement, competition or sales.

Strangles is the most commonly diagnosed infectious horse disease around the world. Clinical signs include fever, profuse nasal discharge and abscessed lymph nodes of the head and neck. The swelling of these lymph nodes may, in severe cases, restrict the airway, hence the name ‘Strangles’. It can prove fatal.

Oliver Wilson, campaign director at The British Horse Society, said: 'It is fantastic news. This big breakthrough is a real boon to horse owners and I believe will lead to a significant drop in Strangles outbreaks. But there is still much to be done.

'The AHT's work to develop and test a fully effective vaccine against Strangles is ongoing. To support it we need to raise another £120,000 by the end of this year to reach the campaign target of £250,000.'

For more information about the Strangles campaign, visit www.strangles.org

14/03/2008 10:02:12