Strangles in Horses Florida continues to affect the equine community, with a 14-year-old gelding in Pasco County testing positive. This article covers the recent case, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, preventive measures, and biosecurity recommendations for horse owners.
Strangles in Horses Florida – Recent Case
On October 28, 2025, a 14-year-old gelding in Pasco County, Florida, tested positive for strangles in horses Florida. The horse developed clinical signs on October 23, including nasal discharge and a draining lymph node abscess. He is currently recovering, and approximately 40 horses may have been exposed. This marks Florida’s 30th confirmed strangles case in 2025.
About Strangles in Horses
Strangles is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus equi subspecies equi and spreads through direct contact with infected horses or contaminated surfaces. Horses not showing clinical signs can still carry and transmit the bacteria. Recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks, posing a risk of long-term outbreaks.
Symptoms of Strangles
Infected horses may show:
- Fever
- Swollen or abscessed lymph nodes
- Nasal discharge
- Coughing or wheezing
- Muscle swelling
- Difficulty swallowing
Diagnosis and Treatment
Veterinarians diagnose strangles in horses Florida using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests from nasal swabs, washes, or abscess samples. Most cases are treated based on clinical signs, with antibiotics reserved for severe infections. Overuse of antibiotics can hinder immunity development. Most horses recover fully within three to four weeks.
Prevention and Biosecurity Measures
While vaccines are available, they are not always fully effective. Preventive measures include:
- Quarantining new horses before introducing them to the facility
- Maintaining strict hygiene standards
- Regularly disinfecting surfaces and equipment
For more information on equine infectious disease monitoring, visit the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC).
