Equine Strangles

Streptococcus equi (Strangles)

Streptococcus equi subsp. equi is the causative agent of strangles, a highly contagious bacterial infection of horses that primarily affects the upper respiratory tract and lymph nodes. It spreads rapidly via direct contact or contaminated equipment, making early detection critical.

Clinical signs include:

• High fever, lethargy, anorexia
• Purulent nasal discharge, painful lymphadenopathy
• Abscess formation, particularly in the submandibular and retropharyngeal lymph nodes
• Potential for carrier states(guttural pouch persistence)

qPCR testing provides:

• Rapid and highly sensitive detection of S. equi DNA from nasopharyngeal swabs, guttural pouch lavage, or abscess aspirates
• Ability to detect subclinical carriers, critical for control in endemic yards
• Ideal for pre-movement screening, outbreak containment, and post-treatment monitoring

Compared to culture, qPCR offers superior sensitivity and faster results, even in partially treated or early-stage infections.

This test is essential for:

• Outbreak management and biosecurity planning
• Screening new arrivals to prevent introduction into naïve populations
• Confirming clearance before returning recovered horses to group housing