Tennessee veterinarian warns about horse disease and explains how to prevent it

NASHVILLE, Tennessee (WSMV) – State veterinarians issued a warning to horse owners after three outbreaks of Potomac horse fever in the central Tennessee area.

The Wayne County horse was the third of two cases added in DeKalb and Rutherford counties earlier in July.

“Tennessee has seen an increase in PHF cases year-over-year,” said state veterinarian Dr. Samantha Beatty. “The disease usually occurs in hot weather, so it’s more common in summer and early fall. Vaccination and risk minimization can help horse owners protect their animals.”

The disease is caused by Neorickettsia ristitii bacteria that originate from aquatic snail larvae and other hosts such as flies.

Horses can be exposed to the disease if they drink water from streams, rivers, or ponds and can suffer from anorexia, diarrhea, colic, fever and laminitis. Owners are urged to contact a veterinarian immediately if their horse exhibits these symptoms. PHF can be fatal if left untreated.

State veterinarians said there is a vaccine, but it may not completely prevent infection in all cases. Minimize. Horse owners should consult with their veterinarian to establish a vaccination schedule.

Direct horse-to-horse transmission of Potomac Equine Fever has not been confirmed and is not a threat to human health.

Dr. Beaty offers the following suggestions on how owners can reduce their exposure to PHF.

• Always provide your horse with clean, fresh drinking water.
• Eliminate, or at least minimize, horse access to streams, creeks, or ponds
• Talk to your veterinarian about vaccination options.
• Eliminate water sources where disease-carrying insects can congregate and breed.
• At night, turn off stable lights that attract insects.

The State Veterinary Authority seeks to prevent the spread of disease through import and transfer requirements, livestock traceability, disaster mitigation, and the services of the CE Kord Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory.

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