Summertime is
Anthrax Time in Texas
Bird Flu Info For You
In a Nutshell: NAIS
Horses and
the National Animal Identification System
Eastern Equine
Encephalitis Confirmed in Louisiana
Planning to take equine animals to events, or transporting pack animals to
Colorado or New Mexico for hunting?
Quick Draw!
Texas' Sees Its First Case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in a Horse
New Regulation Intended
to Protect Horses
Watch for, report, signs of livestock disease
West Nile Virus
Avoid Horse Electrocution
Anthrax Information
Equine Infectious Anemia
"Vaccine"
for Fescue Toxicosis in Broodmares
Summertime is Anthrax Time in
Texas…
Vaccinate Livestock Now in Val Verde, Kinney and Surrounding Counties
It’s the same song, yet another verse for naturally-occurring anthrax cases
in livestock and wildlife in Val Verde and Kinney Counties in Southwest
Texas. A little rain, a lot of hot weather and the invisible, spore-forming
bacteria Bacillus anthracis has resurfaced, putting unvaccinated livestock
and grazing wildlife at risk in the area.
“Anthrax has been
confirmed in a pen of deer in Val Verde County, and in a Charolais bull in
Kinney County. We know that that anthrax often goes under-reported, as we
hear of anecdotal reports of livestock or deer losses without laboratory
confirmation. Many ranchers forego the veterinary inspection and laboratory
tests, and, instead, just begin vaccinating,” reported Dr. Bob Hillman,
Texas’ state veterinarian and head of the Texas Animal Health Commission.
“Anthrax cases are not unusual, but a laboratory confirmation should alert
ranchers and livestock owners that it is time to vaccinate their animals in
Val Verde, Kinney and surrounding counties.”
“Vacationers and
hunters get concerned about anthrax, but there is no need to worry, if
proper precautions are taken,” said Dr. Hillman. “If you travel to an area
where an anthrax case has occurred, avoid touching or handling sick or dead
animals, don’t pick up bones or shed antlers, and don’t swim in ponds or
streams where there are dead animals nearby. The same advice goes for your
pets, too. By the time hunting season starts, cool weather usually puts an
end to anthrax cases. Always harvest only healthy-looking animals.”
Anthrax is a
reportable disease in Texas. While laboratory tests, conducted by the Texas
Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory in College Station, are needed to
confirm infection, suspected cases also are to be reported to the TAHC at
1-800-550-8242, where a veterinarian is on call 24 hours a day. If an
outbreak occurs in dairy animals, producers are to call the TAHC
immediately.
Dr. Hillman
explained that anthrax is naturally occurring around the world. After an
animal dies from the disease and isn’t properly burned, the bacteria will
lie dormant in the soil. The anthrax bacteria resurfaces on grass or forage
only under ideal weather and soil conditions during spring and summer
months. By the time an animal ingests the anthrax bacteria and exhibit
staggering, trembling or convulsions, death is inevitable. TAHC regulations
require that the animal carcasses, manure and bedding be incinerated. This
will keep wild animals from being exposed to the disease, and it will also
kill the bacteria, preventing another site where the anthrax can resurface.
Most of Texas’
anthrax cases occur in a triangle bounded by Uvalde, Ozona and Eagle Pass,
which takes in portions of Crockett, Val Verde, Sutton, Edwards, Kinney,
Uvalde and Maverick counties. However, Dr. Hillman said anthrax can occur
anywhere. Among the cases confirmed this summer are several horses, farmed
buffalo and other livestock in Minnesota; cattle in Saskatchewan, Canada;
free-ranging bison in the Northwest Territories in Canada; sheep, goats and
cattle in Turkey; cattle in Peru; sheep in Russia; and several cows in
Wales, in the United Kingdom.
Several steps
should be followed when anthrax occurs in an area:
1. Wear long sleeves and gloves when handling carcasses or
when working with or vaccinating livestock to avoid contaminating any sores
or scratches on arms or hands. See your doctor if you develop an
unusual-looking sore on your hands, arms or other exposed skin. Although it
is very rare to contract skin anthrax, this infection requires treatment
with antibiotics prescribed by a physician.
2. Practice good sanitation! Wash your hands after
handling livestock (even if you wear gloves.) Disinfect equipment used on
the animals or carcasses. Keep pets and children away from carcasses or
bones of dead animals. Move healthy animals away from a pasture where
animals have died from the disease.
3. Properly dispose of animal carcasses by burning to
prevent exposure to other animals, such as predators or dogs.
4. Vaccinate livestock if cases occur in the surrounding
areas. Anthrax vaccine is a “live” vaccine, so it must not be administered
with antibiotics. Vaccinated animals must be withheld from slaughter for two
months.
5. Restrict the movement of livestock onto or from an
affected premise until animals can develop immunity through vaccination
(about 10 days).
Bird Flu Info For You
The Sky Is Falling?????
It's enough to make you head for the hills. Some
headlines about "bird flu," or avian influenza, make grave predictions
(literally), and foretell absolute worst-case scenarios. Arm yourself with
information!
What is "Bird Flu?"
Avian Influenza is a virus that usually affects only birds. It
circulates among the wild bird population (and sometimes, pigs) and like
some other flu viruses, can change, or mutate.
All "Bird Flu" isn't the same!
The avian influenza virus can be configured into more than144 strains,
as determined by the combinations of "H" and "N." The "H" --or Hemaglutinin,
and the "N" --Neuraminidase, in the virus. For example, the virus may be
classified as H1N2, H2N2 or H7N2.
Wait! There's more!
To add to the mix, some avian influenza strains come in one of two
strengths, known as "pathogenicity," or the ability to sicken or kill birds.
Low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) may be inapparent or make birds
slightly ill. Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), on the other hand,
may make birds very sick, or cause large death losses.
The highly visible "bird flu" in the news is a highly pathogenic H5N1
strain, which has not yet been detected in the U.S. However, could be
"imported" by migrating wild birds, or by diseased birds or products
smuggled into the country. Early detection is crucial.
You can't tell by looking!
Avian influenza infection, the particular avian influenza strain, or its
pathogenicity can't be determined by looking at a sick bird. A number of
diseases or conditions can cause birds to become ill or to die. To determine
the cause, laboratory tests must be conducted on blood, tissue or fecal
material from a potentially infected bird. In Texas, the Texas Veterinary
Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) conducts the laboratory testing.
Wild Bird Testing
Wild waterfowl are the natural host for the avian influenza virus. Since
1998, more than 12,000 migratory birds and waterfowl have been tested in
Alaska, and it is not unexpected to detect some avian influenza strains. All
tests, however, have been negative for H5N1.
This year, more wild birds are being tested along their migratory
paths--called flyways. Texas is in the Central Flyway, and the U.S.
Department of Agriculture's Wildlife Services and the Texas Parks and
Wildlife Department in 2006 will collect several thousand samples from
targeted species, selected due to their potential risk for carrying avian
influenza. Collectively in the U.S., more than 100,000 wild birds will be
sampled.
Do I report dead wild birds?
A dead bird in your yard should not cause undue concern. However,
because birds may die from a variety of causes, don't touch the bird with
bare hands. Place a plastic bag over your hand and pick up the bird,
enclosing it in the bag and disposing of it in the garbage. Then wash your
hands thoroughly.
If you see a die-off of many birds, notify your local health officials,
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, or the Texas Animal Health Commission
(the state's livestock and poultry health regulatory agency). Samples then
can be collected to determine if the birds died from avian influenza or some
other cause.
What about domesticated flocks?
Commercially produced poultry (including chickens and turkeys) are
raised indoors, protected from contact with wild birds.
Biosecurity measure are employed, which may include disinfecting boots and
tools prior to entering poultry houses, restricting visitor access, and
cleaning vehicle tires at the farm gate, to avoid introducing disease.
Routine disease surveillance for avian influenza is performed on commercial
flocks. Since 1995, the Texas' commercial poultry industry submitted more
than 200,000 samples yearly to the TVMDL. Last year, the sample count topped
366,665. Routine disease surveillance also is conducted on many
noncommercial flocks.
In 2004, two strains of avian influenza (not H5N1!) were detected in the
state. The TAHC and the USDA-Texas staff responded immediately to quarantine
the flocks, and control, then eliminate the infection.
On the affected sites, cages, poultry houses and equipment were thoroughly
disinfected. Before releasing the quarantine, the team conducted widespread
area testing of both commercial and noncommercial flocks to ensure the
disease had been eradicated.
The TAHC encourages all flock owners to report to their veterinarian or the
TAHC unusual signs of illness in their birds or significant death losses.
TAHC and USDA veterinarians, trained as foreign animal disease
diagnosticians, can collect and submit samples for testing.
For more information about biosecurity, or to report unusual illness or
death loss in your flock, call the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) at
1-800-550-8242.
Under its Fowl Registration Program, the TAHC requires domestic and exotic
fowl sellers, distributors and transporters who sell at public sites to
register with the agency, if they're not enrolled in a recognized avian
influenza surveillance program. This will enable the TAHC to quickly
contact flock owners if a disease outbreak is associated with a public sale.
The TAHC also has increased live bird market and backyard flock disease
surveillance.
Don't "chicken out" because of avian influenza fears!
What's YOUR preference? Scrambled eggs? Chicken leg, turkey sandwich?
What would summer be without chicken on the grill, fried drumsticks on a
picnic, accompanied by deviled eggs, or a
succulent smoked turkey leg at the local fair? Enjoy!
As with any food product, follow safe and proper food storage, handling,
cooking and serving
practices to avoid spoilage.
What's the story in Asia & Europe?
HPAI H5N1 has been detected in about 50 countries. It is believed to be
carried by wild birds or spread through the illegal movement of poultry and
fowl. Animal health
officials in many countries follow procedures similar to those used by
states and the USDA to address the disease. In the U.S., immediate response
is crucial.
Why have people gotten sick from H5NI?
Since 2003, about 200 persons have contracted the HPAI H5N1 virus.
Nearly all had extensive direct contact with sick or dead birds, or consumed
improperly
prepared products from sick birds. Human-to-human transmission has not been
demonstrated.
Lack of biosecurity, extreme crowding, and cultural practices may contribute
to the transmission of HPAI H5N1 to humans. As of late May 2006, nearly 50
human
cases had been confirmed in Indonesia, a country roughly three times the
size of Texas, but with 245 million citizens and more than 780 million
poultry, most in small, backyard flocks.
In contrast, Texas has 23 million residents, and most of the state's 100
million poultry are produced commercially.
Then what's the concern?
The worst-case scenario would be a
mutation of the virus that results in rapid
human-to-human transmission. To date, HPAI H5N1 remains primarily a bird
disease with only limited bird-to-human
transmission.
Preparation. Communication.
At the national level, the USDA is working with a cadre of agencies in
preparation for
response to an HPAI H5N1 outbreak, should one occur.
As in most other states, the TAHC is working cooperatively with state and
federal animal and human health agencies, and industry
to prepare for an avian influenza situation.
The TAHC is working with:
The College of Veterinary Medicine,
Texas A&M University
Department of State Health Services (Texas)
Foreign Animal & Zoonotic Disease Center,
Texas A&M University
Texas Cooperative Extension Service
Texas Department of Agriculture
Texas Farm Bureau
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
Texas Poultry Federation
Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory
Texas Veterinary Medical Association
USDA's Veterinary Services
USDA's Wildlife Services
US Fish and Wildlife Service
Also, as a member of the Governor's Division of Emergency Management, the
TAHC may enlist support from more than 30 agencies, if a disease outbreak
occurs. The Foreign and Emerging Animal Disease response plan is the state's
blueprint for a disease response.
To develop and maintain expertise, TAHC veterinarians and animal health
inspectors have worked on poultry disease outbreaks and have participated in
state- and national-level preparedness meetings.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Don't "chicken out" because of avian influenza fears!
What's YOUR preference?
Scrambled eggs?
Chicken leg, turkey sandwich?
What would summer be without chicken on the grill, fried drumsticks on a
picnic, accompanied by deviled eggs, or a succulent smoked turkey leg at
the local fair? Enjoy!
As with any food product, follow safe and proper food storage, handling,
cooking and serving
practices to avoid spoilage.
In a Nutshell: NAIS
The National Animal Identification System (NAIS)
is designed to provide the capacity to rapidly identify all animals and
premises (sites) that have had direct contact with a disease. NAIS consists
of three components:
1. Premises (or site)
identification
2. Animal identification
3. Animal tracking.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has set "benchmarks"
for completing each component of the program. By January 2007, 25 percent
of the country's premises are to be registered. By January 2008--70 percent
of the premises are to be signed up, and by January 2009, the three
components are to be fully functioning.
Premises Identification
The program is national, but each state is responsible for implementing
premises identification. Premises are locations where livestock or fowl are
handled, managed, housed, or processed.
The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC), as of May 2006, has implemented
premises identification on a voluntary basis. Proposed regulations for
mandatory identification were "tabled" until at least 2007.
Identifying a premises involves obtaining a seven-character alpha-numeric
"identifier" for the farm, ranch, veterinary clinic or other site where
livestock or fowl are handled, housed, managed or processed. Signing up can
be accomplished on the TAHC web site or by mail.
Information requested includes the contact person's name, phone number, the
premises' physical address, and a list of species raised on the site.
Acreage or herd or flock size is not requested.
Animal Identification
This component of the NAIS will "come on line" gradually, and will
involve identifying livestock and fowl that are moved from their premises of
origin (place of birth). Depending on the species of animal, the
identification may be accomplished with a tag, band, microchip, radio
frequency identification device (RFID tag) or other form of identification.
Animal Tracking
Animal tracking databases, approved by the USDA and operated by
companies, associations or other entities, will hold
livestock and fowl movement information. This data will be accessed by
animal health regulatory agencies for disease control purposes.
Dispelling Rumors, Myths & Misinformation
I've got only one animal, so why do I need to
have my premises identified?
Your one animal may be as susceptible to disease as the herd or
flock with hundreds. In the event of disease, state and federal animal
health veterinarians and inspectors must ensure that all disease is stamped
out. Going door-to-door to locate susceptible animals that must be tested or
vaccinated is inefficient and costly!
Wouldn't you want to know if a disease incident occurs in your area, so you
can take proper precautions? Identifying all premises enables an efficient
and effective response to disease.
I read that dogs and cats are included.
No. The NAIS involves livestock, fowl and poultry. Some of the
species included are cattle, horses, swine, sheep, goats, exotic hoof stock,
chickens, turkeys.
All chickens will be microchipped!
NAIS does not include plans for microchipping chickens. When
animal identification goes into effect, an identifying wing band or leg band
would suffice for movement of birds, or for commingling birds from different
flocks.
Someone said I have to register my premises,
because I have a parakeet.
No. Persons who owns birds kept as house pets do not need to
register their premises, if they do not propagate birds for sale or trade.
In a bird disease situation, these birds may be tested and may come under
the same movement restrictions as other fowl.
Owners of aviaries and bird breeders or sellers should register their
premises.
I have to identify my pet animals...or my animals
used for MY food!
No. If your animals are raised for your own use, and they don't
leave the premises (site) you won't need to identify them.
When animal identification goes into effect, only the animals that leave
their premises of origin will be identified. If you haul your calf, pig or
other animals to the local slaughter plant for custom processing for your
consumption, the animal may not need to be identified.
Reports say you're going to charge $1,000 a day for
not participating!
Premises identification is voluntary now.
The TAHC is a regulatory agency and has administrative penalty provisions
in its law as a recourse for persons who refuse to comply with livestock and
poultry health regulations. The administrative penalties apply to all TAHC
regulations and are imposed by an administrative law judge only after an
individual has been issued a warning, provided opportunity for compliance,
and allowed a hearing.
This ID program was made just to benefit the "big
producer!"
The average cattle herd size in Texas is less than 35! There are
many, many producers in Texas who have only a few animals. This program
includes all producers.
I don't sell overseas; why should I care about
animal ID?
In today's global economy, product from the animal you sell at
the local livestock market could end up on the dinner table in one of many
countries.
Although the program will aid in marketing U.S. products, its greatest
advantage will be to make disease response here at home, faster, more
effective and more efficient.
I'll have to call the
"government" each time I ride my horse, haul my sheep, or take my pigs to a
show.
That's not necessary! However,
please call if you have questions, would like disease information, or need
entry regulations for shows or travel.
Animal tracking information will be recorded in private databases. When
implemented, movements can be reported by computer, or by paper document.
National species-specific working groups are determining which movements
need to be reported, how specific species should be identified, and how to
make the program work for the producer.
These groups are comprised of association representatives, owners of large
and small flocks or herds, and state and federal
members. The Equine Species Working Group, for instance, is wrestling with
reporting issues.
Horses aren't food animals. They don't need to be
included.
The NAIS isn't a food safety program. It is a tool to address
animal disease. Horses are susceptible to a number of diseases. Also, during
a disease outbreak, horses may be "caught up" in movement restrictions or
requirements, even if they are not susceptible to the disease, because
viruses and bacteria can be carried on hooves and hides of animals, on
vehicles, clothing and equipment.
When animal movement tracking goes into effect,
will I report every ride?
The Equine Species Working Group, in a recent document states:
"Not every single movement of a horse will have to be reported. Movements
such as local trail rides, shows or ropings wouldn't be required reportable
events. It is likely that movements would be reportable when horses are
transported interstate or to a premises where a brand inspection,
certificate of veterinary inspection, or other health papers are required."
I already have a scrapie number.
The scrapie number, used for sheep and some goats, is not
automatically "rolled over" to a premises registration number. Eventually,
the premises identification will replace the scrapie number.
How about 4H and FFA kids?
Youths who house their animals at home can use their parents'
premises identification.
If the parents don't have animals and don't need a premises identification,
the student may be able to use the identification issued to the 4H Club or
FFA Chapter
Horses and
the National Animal Identification System
The national Equine Working Group has a new information booklet available
on the American Horse Council web site. The booklet provides valuable
information from the working group and may aid in answering questions about
equine animals and National Animal Identification System (NAIS).
Voluntary premises registration continues in Texas, and as of May 3,
12,320 premises have been registered. As of April 27, the USDA reports more
than 252,000 premises nationally have been registered.
To learn more about premises registration, you can go to the National
Animal Identification System web site or the Texas Animal Health Commission
web site, or call the TAHC at 1-800-550-8252.
If you cannot download the Equine Working Group booklet, please let me
know, and I'll mail you a paper copy. Please provide your name and mailing
address. Carla Everett, TAHC
NAIS and Horses: The Facts
http://www.horsecouncil.org/06%20ESWG%20-%20NAIS%20Informational%20Booklet.pdf
If you can't go to the booklet directly from the link above, you can go
to the American Horse Council web site, where the booklet is posted. The
link will be on the upper right side:
http://www.horsecouncil.org/
Texas Animal Health Commission:
http://www.tahc.state.tx.us
National Animal Identification System:
http://animalid.aphis.usda.gov/nais/index.shtml
Eastern Equine
Encephalitis Confirmed in Louisiana
Louisiana officials have confirmed at least 10 horses have died from
Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), and another 10 are
believed to have had the mosquito-borne disease.
Equine owners in East Texas, or persons who plan to haul their animals to the
area, should make sure their horses have been vaccinated against the disease.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Planning to take equine animals to events, or transporting pack animals to
Colorado or New Mexico for hunting?
Due to the continuing Vesicular Stomatitis (VS) outbreak in Colorado and New
Mexico, animals traveling into Colorado or New Mexico must have an examination
by an accredited veterinarian prior to returning to Texas. The negative
examination results by the Colorado or New Mexico veterinarian may be recorded
on the certificate of veterinary inspection that accompanied the animal, if the
certificate is still valid (less than 45 days old). Otherwise, a new
certificate of veterinary inspection must be issued by the accredited
veterinarian in Colorado or New Mexico.
The following statement and the accredited veterinarian's original signature
must be recorded on the certificate of veterinary inspection:
"The animals represented on this certificate of veterinary inspection have not
originated from a premise or area under quarantine for vesicular stomatitis or a
premise on which vesicular stomatitis has been diagnosed in the past thirty
days. I have examined each animal and have found no signs of vesicular
stomatitis."
The Colorado Department of Agriculture lists cases and affected counties on its
web site at:
http://www.ag.state.co.us/animals/VSV/VSVWebsite.html
For information on cases in New Mexico, contact the state veterinarian's
office at 505-841-6161.
If you have any questions, please call the Texas Animal Health Commission's
permit department at 1-800-550-8242, ext. 777.
NEWS RELEASE
Texas Animal Health Commission
Box l2966 * Austin, Texas 78711 *
(800) 550-8242 * FAX (512) 719-0719
Linda Logan, DVM, PhD * Executive
Director
For info, contact Carla Everett, info
officer, at 1-800-550-8242, ext. 710,
or ceverett@tahc.state.tx.us
For Immediate Release--August 1, 2002
Quick Draw!
Make sure YOUR horse looks like its picture!
Like most folks, you probably detest your driver's license photo, but, in all
likelihood, the identification card resembles you (albeit on a bad day).
Similarly, your horse's test document for equine infectious anemia (EIA) also is
used for identification, and the drawing on this U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA) form, called a VS 10-11, also should look
like your animal.
"The VS 10-11 form is to be presented when horses, mules, donkeys or other
equids are sold, or are entered into shows, fairs, trail rides, or, since July
1, when the animals are used on a public trail. This federal document is proof
that the animal has been tested for the viral disease EIA, or as some folks call
it, 'Coggins' or 'Swamp Fever.' " said Rick Smathers, director of Program
Records at the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC), the state's livestock
health agency. He said accredited private veterinarians can test the animals for
EIA by collecting a small sample of blood from the animal and submitting it to a
laboratory approved by the USDA. Texas has 90 approved EIA testing labs.
"Recently, an event official turned away a horse because the drawing on the
VS 10-11 didn't resemble the animal being presented. Important aspects of the
animal's appearance hadn't been sketched or noted on the test document, so the
event official didn't consider it to be a 'match'," he said.
Smathers explained that the VS 10-11 is printed with an outline of a horse,
and the accredited veterinarian issuing the document is to sketch or note any of
the animal's spots, markings, stockings, hair whorls or scars or brands; "Take a
moment now to ensure that your animal' VS 10-11 is filled out accurately and
completely," said Smathers. "Be sure you could identify your animal by looking
at the form. If identifying characteristics have been omitted, visit with your
veterinarian about having a revised document issued."
Smathers said that more than 152,000 horses in Texas have been tested for EIA
in 2002, and each animal must have its own VS 10-11. "With so many forms being
filled out, it's understandable that an error could be made on rare occasions.
That's why the owner needs to double-check the form for accuracy," he pointed
out.
EIA affects only members of the equine family, such as horses, donkeys and
mules, and the incurable virus is not a threat to human health. Dr. Max Coats,
TAHC assistant executive director, explained that the virus may be spread from
infected equids to 'clean' animals when blood-to-blood contact is made, an event
that can occur when biting flies travel from one animal to the next, or when
contaminated instruments, such as hypodermic needles or dental floats, are used.
He stressed that EIA is not the same disease as West Nile Virus, which is a
"sleeping sickness" that can be spread by infected mosquitoes.
To combat the spread of EIA, it's important to avoid commingling infected and
'clean' animals, because biting flies can be present nearly all year in Texas,"
said Dr. Coats. He noted that 73 animals have tested positive for EIA in 2002, a
dramatic decrease since 1997, when 750 animals tested positive for the disease.
"The TAHC has some tough regulations to prevent the spread of the disease,"
Dr. Coats said. "If an owner elects to keep an EIA-infected animal, then all
horses, donkeys or mules on the premise remain quarantined until the infected
animal is either sent to slaughter, is euthanized or is transported to a
research facility. When the infected animal is removed, the remaining animals
are tested 60 days later, and if they are disease-free, the quarantine will be
lifted."
Smathers reminded equine owners that TAHC regulations also require that
horses, donkeys and mules have an EIA test within the previous 12 months if
they:
-- undergo a change of ownership--whether through sale, trade or gift
-- enter shows, fairs, rodeos or other assemblies
-- are hauled to trail rides, or are being taken on public trails
-- enter training or breeding farms or stables
-- are boarded, stabled or pastured within within 200 yards of equine animals
owned by another person Smathers said animals need an EIA test within the
previous 12 months and a health certificate, if they cross state lines. In lieu
of a health certificate, which is valid only 30 to 45 days (depending on the
state of destination), equine animals may be moved in and among Texas, Oklahoma,
Louisiana, Mississippi and Arkansas with an "equine passport," a document valid
for six months.
"The equine passport makes it easier to travel among the five participating
states," Smathers said. "The passport is good for six months, and each time it
is issued, the animal must undergo an EIA test. Nearly 300 passports have been
issued by the TAHC.
For more details regarding the equine passport or requirements regarding
testing for EIA, contact the TAHC at 1-800-550-8242 or your local accredited
private veterinary practitioner.
NEWS RELEASE
Texas Animal Health Commission
Box l2966 *Austin, Texas 78711 *(800)
550-8242* FAX (512) 719-0719
Linda Logan, DVM, PhD* Executive
Director
For info, contact Carla Everett,
information officer, at 1-800-550-8242,
ext. 710, or ceverett@tahc.state.tx.us
For Immediate Release July 3, 2002
Preliminary tests on a sick horse
that was euthanized Saturday, June 29, near Katy in far west Harris County,
indicate that the animal was infected with West Nile Virus (WNV), a form of
"sleeping sickness" first detected in Texas in two dead blue jays June 18 on the
northwest side of Houston.
According to the Texas Department of
Health (TDH), another 29 infected birds have since been found.
"We were notified today (July 3) that
tests run on samples of the horses's blood and spinal fluid were positive for
WNV. The tests were run both at the Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic
Laboratory (TVMDL) in College Station, and at the National Veterinary Services
Laboratory (NVSL) in Ames, Iowa," said Dr. Linda Logan, Texas' state
veterinarian and executive director for the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC),
the state's livestock health regulatory agency.
"The NVSL is running additional
confirmation tests on the blood samples, but more than likely, we are seeing
Texas' first case of West Nile Virus in a horse. Diagnosing WNV must be based on
laboratory confirmation, as the signs of the disease, including staggering or
the inability to rise, can mimic other diseases, including rabies, or other
encepalitic diseases, such as Western Equine Encephalitis (WEE) and Eastern
Equine Encephalitis (EEE)."
WNV was unheard of in North America
until l999, when it was detected in birds in New York. The virus, which can
cause brain swelling and severe illness in horses , previously had been confined
to Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. WNV has spread to 20 US states,
following the migratory flight patterns of birds along the Eastern Seaboard and
west as far as Texas. In 2001, 738 horses, donkeys or other members of the
equine family were diagnosed with the disease in the U.S., and about 20 percent
of the animals had to be euthanized, due to the severity of their illness.
"Blue jays, crows and more than 70
other species of birds can carry the virus, but it is the mosquito that puts the
disease cycle in motion," explained Dr. Logan. "After feeding on infected birds,
mosquitoes ingest the virus, and about one percent of the pests then become
infected and capable of spreading the virus to horses or humans. There have been
no documented cases of animals or humans spreading the disease. Dogs and cats
appear to be resistant to the disease."
"Home and stable owners should take
precautions to prevent mosquito bites," said Dr. Joe Garrett, a veterinarian
with the TDH's Zoonosis Control Division. "Get rid of stagnant water, drain
flowerpots, keep bird baths clean and cut weeds down to discourage mosquito
breeding grounds. Apply insect repellents, and put up screens to protect your
home or stable from being 'invaded' by mosquitoes. There is no vaccine for
people, but fortunately, human cases of WNV are extremely rare. However, see
your physician immediately if you develop signs of the disease, which include
fever, headache, body aches and swollen lymph glands. More severe infection may
be marked by headache, high fever, neck stiffness."
"We continue to work with other
agencies to urge horse owners to have their animals vaccinated against WNV, and
with the diagnosis of this disease in the Houston area, all possible preventive
efforts are import to stop the spread of this disease," said Dr. Richard Ferris,
area-veterinarian-in-charge for the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Veterinary
Services in Texas. "We are investigating other potential cases in horses in
Harris County and are awaiting test results. If you live in the Houston area,
protect your horses from mosquitoes. While a vaccine is available for horses,
the animal must receive two doses of WNV vaccine three to six weeks apart, and
full protection does not begin until at least four to six weeks after the second
dose of vaccine is administered," he said. "I'd urge owners to take action now
to get horses protected."
"If your horse becomes ill and goes
off feed, sways, develops head tremors, muscle twitches or cannot rise, contact
your veterinarian, so he or she can collect and send in samples to us for
diagnostic testing," said Dr. Lelve Gayle, executive director of the TVMDL.
Laboratory confirmation of cases is particularly important for tracking the
movement of WNV within the state.
Dr. Garrett said the TDH is
continuing its WNV disease surveillance statewide, which includes testing
mosquitoes, dead crows, blue jays, hawks and sampling zoo birds. Dead crows,
blue jays or hawks can be submitted for laboratory examination, by calling the
nearest regional Texas Department of Health office or the Texas Department of
Health in Austin at 1-512-458-7255.
"If you are picking up a dead bird,
wear gloves and wash your hands afterward," explained Dr. Garrett. "The bird
could have had parasites of other illnesses, and it's always advisable to keep a
barrier---like gloves--between you and the dead bird."
Dr. Logan reminded livestock owners
that, as always, the TAHC operates a 24-hour hotline at 1-800-550-8242 for
taking reports of unusual signs in livestock, including:
1. staggering, falling, or inability
to rise
2. illness affecting a large
percentage of animals
3. sudden death loss
4. blistering around an animal's
lips, teats or hooves
5. unusual ticks or maggots
Additional information about WNV can
be accessed on the internet at:
http://www.tdh.state.tx.us/zoonosis/diseases/arboviral/westnile/westnile.asp.
NEWS RELEASE
Texas Animal Health Commission
Box l2966 *Austin, Texas 78711 *(800) 550-8242* FAX (512) 719-0719
Linda Logan, DVM, PhD* Executive Director
For info, contact Carla Everett, information officer, at 1-800-550-8242,
ext. 710,
or ceverett@tahc.state.tx.us
For Immediate Release--
New Regulation Intended to
Protect Horses
Horse enthusiasts with limited area on which to keep their animals can now be
assured that nearby horses have tested negative for Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA).
EIA, also referred to as "Coggins" or "Swamp Fever," is an incurable disease
that can be carried by biting flies from infected equids (horses, mules, donkeys
or asses) to "clean" animals. While most infected animals appear healthy, some
may die from the virus. Other equids will develop chronic, recurring health
problems, such as debilitating weight loss, fever, depression, weakness and
swelling of the legs. There is no cure or approved vaccine for EIA, and
treatment is limited to providing comfort to the sick animal.
To combat the spread of EIA, the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC), the
state's livestock health regulatory authority,in response to citizen petitions,
enacted a new regulation April 1, 2002, that requires equids to have had a
negative blood test for EIA within the previous 12 months, if the animals are
boarded, stabled or pastured within 200 yards of equids owned by another person.
"Concerned owners approached the TAHC commissioners several months ago with a
petition, asking for this new regulation," commented Dr. Linda Logan, Texas'
state veterinarian and TAHC executive director. "Because many horse owners in
Texas have small plots of land, they wanted to be assured that their animals
would not be near potentially infected equids."
Dr. Logan stressed that although EIA-infected equids do not spread the disease
through close contact, biting flies can mechanically carry viral-laden blood
from one animal to another. EIA does not affect humans or animals other than
equids, she explained.
"Owners may call the TAHC headquarters or their TAHC area office, to request
assistance with this regulation," said Dr. Logan. "A TAHC representative will
first ensure that the complainant's animals have up-to-date EIA test documents.
Then, TAHC staff will canvass neighboring premises to gain compliance with the
testing requirements."
Dr. Logan said the TAHC has worked to control EIA for many years and Texas has
had a dramatic decline in the viral infection since l997, when more than 730
equids tested positive in Texas. Of the 250,000 equids tested in Texas in 2001,
only 124 were infected, a drop which Dr. Logan credits to owner concern, more
stringent testing requirements and a growing awareness of EIA.
Current TAHC regulations require equids to be test-negative for EIA within the
previous 12 months, if they are hauled to assemblies, such as fairs, shows,
exhibitions, rodeos or trail rides. The 12-month EIA test rule also applies to
equidae undergoing a change of ownership or entering the state.
EIA-positive equine are permanently identified with a "74A" on their left
shoulder and must either be euthanized, sold to slaughter or provided to an
approved research facility, or remain quarantined for life, at least 200 yards
from other equidae.
NEWS RELEASE
Texas Animal Health Commission
Box l2966 *Austin, Texas 78711 *(800) 550-8242* FAX (512) 719-0719
Linda Logan, DVM, PhD* Executive Director
For info, contact Carla Everett, information officer,
at 1-800-550-8242, ext. 710, or ceverett@tahc.state.tx.us
For Immediate Release--
Ranchers & Veterinarians:
Watch for, report, signs of livestock disease
It's 8 p.m. Do you know where--or how--your cattle (or sheep, goats, horses or other
livestock) are? In this era of heightened awareness about unusual activities, livestock
health officials are asking ranchers to check their livestock regularly and immediately
report signs of disease.
Also, animal owners are asked to report suspicious activities, intruders or
circumstances to local police or sheriff's department. License plate numbers and
descriptions of trespassers, should be recorded.
"We're urging producers to keep a closer watch on their animals, in light of
recent events in our country," commented Dr. Linda Logan, Texas' state veterinarian
and head of the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC), the state's livestock health
regulatory agency. "As always, individual livestock producers and private veterinary
practitioners are our first line of defense if--or when--a livestock disease is
accidentally or intentionally introduced into the state. The immediate reporting of
suspicious or unusual conditions can make all the difference in our ability to swiftly
diagnose, control and eradicate a disease."
She said ranchers should watch for and report any of these signs:
1. Sudden, unexplained death loss in the herd or flock.
2. Severe illness affecting a high percentage of animals.
3. Blistering around an animal's mouth, nose, teats or hooves.
4. Unusual ticks or maggots.
5. Central nervous system disorders that cause an animal to stagger or fall.
"Through teamwork, the TAHC and Texas' USDA staff for months has maintained a
24-hour hot line for disease reporting," said Dr. John Lomme, assistant area
veterinarian in charge of Texas for the US Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant
Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services (USDA-APHIS-VS). "We take reports and
dispatch a trained foreign animal disease diagnostician to collect samples, evaluate the
situation and take appropriate measures to protect livestock health. There is no charge
for the service."
"To report suspicious signs, call 1-800-550-8242. After work hours, follow the
recorded instructions to page a veterinarian," commented Dr. Logan. "Be prepared
to provide a description of the potential disease signs and information regarding the
location, species and number of animals involved. "
Dr. Logan pointed out that a joint TAHC and USDA-APHIS-VS "first-strike"
force has been preparing to fight a foreign animal disease outbreak or natural disaster
affecting livestock. Known as the Texas Emergency Response Team, or TERT, this group can
be mobilized quickly to address a disease situation.
"The TAHC also is a full-fledged member of the state's Emergency Management
Council, giving us the ability to call on the resources of more than 31 major state
agencies," said Dr. Logan. "In late June, representatives from more than 22 of
the participating agencies gathered in College Station for a tabletop exercise involving a
make-believe outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), a highly contagious foreign animal
virus that, most recently, has greatly damaged the livestock industry in the Great
Britain."
"In a livestock emergency, we could tap the manpower of state troopers to provide
roadblocks to stop livestock movement, the National Guard to provide depopulation
assistance and equipment, and the support services of the Red Cross to feed teams,"
explained Dr. Logan. She also pointed out that the TAHC and USDA-APHIS-VS have expanded
the network of contacts with local emergency management coordinators, private veterinary
practitioners and industry liaisons.
"While preparing to fight disease, we can never forget that our most valuable and
cost-effective tool is livestock disease prevention and surveillance," commented Dr.
Lomme. He listed several things livestock producers can do to help ensure the health of
their herd or flock: *
If you travel internationally, don't bring restricted products into the U.S., such as
sausages, hams or other dangerous products that could spread disease. NEVER allow visitors
or family members to bring these items on your property.
* Launder or dry clean clothing and coats before you return to the US. Shower, wash
your hair and put on clean clothes before heading to your flight home. Viruses or bacteria
can be carried in your hair or on your skin, so it's important to bathe before traveling.
Provide arriving international travelers with a clean set of clothing that can be worn
after they shower.
* Remove mud and manure from your shoes before journeying back to the U.S! Ask the
Customs agent or USDA official to disinfect your shoes and other potentially contaminated
items if you've been to a farm, zoo or other site where livestock or wildlife have been
commingled. Provide shoes for visitors, or insist they wear only shoes that have not been
worn on a ranch in another country
* For at least five days before you return to the U.S., don't go around farms, sale
barns, zoos, fairs or other sites where livestock are kept. You could carry bacteria or
viruses in your lungs, throat or nasal passages, and although you don't become ill, you
could spread a livestock disease. Likewise, don't allow international travelers to have
access to your livestock until they've been in the U.S. for at least five days.
* Report suspicious activities, intruders or circumstances to the local police or
sheriff's department. If possible, record license plate numbers and descriptions of
trespassers.
Texas Animal Health Commission
Box l2966 *Austin, Texas 78711 *(800) 550-8242* FAX (512) 719-0719
Linda Logan, DVM, PhD* Executive Director
For info, contact Carla Everett, information officer, at 1-800-550-8242, ext. 710, or
ceverett@tahc.state.tx.us
For Immediate Release--
Mosquitoes 2001: Threat to Human & Livestock Health
By day, the hovering needle-nosed pests attack silently, evidenced only by a bloody
"splat" or ugly welt. In darkness the mosquitoes dive bomb, their high-pitched
drone cutting a swath through slumber. In late summer 2001, however Texas health officials
are the ones losing sleep because of mosquitoes. While most of the time, the pests are
just unpleasant and troublesome, this year mosquitoes are threatening the health of humans
and livestock. Staff members from the Texas Department of Health (TDH) and Texas Animal
Health Commission (TAHC), the state's livestock health regulatory agency, are pooling
resources to prevent, track and alert Texas about cases of mosquito-borne viruses.
West Nile Virus
In mid-August, West Nile Virus (WNV) was detected in a dead bird in a suburb of
New Orleans, meaning this virus, first discovered in the US in l999 in New York City, has
made significant progress in its migration toward Texas. The disease, common in Africa,
Middle East and West Asia, was not documented in humans or animals in the Western
Hemisphere until l999. This year, a dozen states and the District of Columbia have
detected WNV in mosquitoes or birds: New York, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey,
Connecticut, Rhode Island, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Florida, Georgia, and Louisiana.
"WNV will eventually come to Texas," said Dr. Joe Garrett, veterinary
epidemiologist for the Texas Department of Health's Zoonosis Control Division, which
tracks animal diseases which can affect humans. "As soon as it is detected in Texas,
state agencies will alert veterinarians and physicians so they can be prepared to
recognize the disease in their patients."
"WNV is carried by at least 54 species of wild birds that die from the
disease," explained Dr. Garrett, who is also a former TAHC epidemiologist.
"After mosquitoes feed on affected birds, they're then able to transmit the virus to
people or other animals." He said most WNV-infected humans will have no symptoms of
illness. However, a small number of victims develop fever, head and body aches, skin
rashes and swollen lymph glands. Fewer than one in a hundred infected persons may develop
inflammation of the spinal cord, known as meningitis, or encephalitis, a swelling of the
brain. Symptoms may involve coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness and paralysis.
Since l999, 85 persons in the US have been diagnosed with West Nile Fever; nine have died.
This summer two persons hospitalized in Florida and another in New York were diagnosed
with the disease.
"Anyone experiencing symptoms compatible with West Nile Fever should see their
physician as soon as possible," advised Dr. Garrett. "Good supportive medical
care is needed to assist patients in recovering from the illness. Those persons over 50
years of age, or suffering from other medical problems are at highest risk for illness if
they are exposed to the virus."
West Nile Fever is not spread by human or animal contact. And, although there is no
evidence that dead birds can transmit infection, Dr. Garrett urges that gloves be worn
when handling wild dead birds or animals that may have been exposed to the virus.
"Horses affected by WNV usually don't have signs of illness. Like human victims,
however, a few may develop acute illness, and may stagger, become weak, be unable to rise
and eventually, could die," he said. Twenty-four horses have tested positive for the
disease in 2001; 23 in Florida and one in Georgia. Dr. John Irby, the TAHC's equine issues
specialist and director for counties in northeast Texas, noted that the US Department of
Agriculture's Center for Veterinary Biologics has issued a conditional one-year license to
Fort Dodge Laboratories for a West Nile vaccine for horses. He said the product will
require two doses, administered three to six weeks apart. Final approval for the vaccine
may be granted after information on the effectiveness and potency of the drug is reviewed.
"The drawback is that Texas may be down the list on receiving supplies of the
vaccine, as it will be issued first to states that have experienced the disease.
Futhermore, anyone shipping animals internationally should be aware that this vaccine
could cause false-positive blood tests, hindering the ability to export horses," he
noted.
Through a grant from the Centers for Disease Control, TDH staff is conducting
surveillance on mosquitoes, dead crows, bluejays and hawks. To submit a bird for
laboratory examination, call your regional Texas Department of Health office or the Texas
Department of Health in Austin at 1-512-458-7255, The TAHC and TDH are testing equids,
such as horses, mules, donkeys and asses. TAHC field personnel are collecting an extra
blood sample for WNV when they draw specimens from equids suspected of being infected or
exposed to equine infectious anemia (EIA), an unrelated viral disease that does not affect
humans. (The extra blood sample will be tested for WNV in the TDH laboratory.) The owner's
names will remain confidential, and only the county names will be reported as part of the
federally funded study.
Encephalitis, or "Sleeping Sickness"
Also being diagnosed are various other forms of encephalitis, also known as
"sleeping sickness." Dr. Garrett said at least nine persons in Louisiana have
been hospitalized with encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain, caused by a virus
carried from birds to humans by mosquitoes. Doctors have not yet determined the virus
which has caused this outbreak. In l998, said Dr. Garrett, one person died in Louisiana
from ailment that causes fever, nausea, vomiting, confusion and speech and vision
impairment. "Physicians provide supportive care, but there is no treatment, only
prevention," he said. "Thank goodness the disease is rare." TAHC officials
are urging Texas equine owners to have their animals vaccinated for "sleeping
sickness," after a horse in Henderson County and another in Jasper County tested
positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). Also two horses in northwest Louisiana
have tested positive for the disease. A horse in Titus County, in northeast Texas, has
tested positive for Western Equine Encephalitis (WEE).
"Both forms of this virus are seen sporadically in the U.S.," said Dr. Logan.
"We encourage owners to have their horses, donkeys, mules and asses vaccinated if
they are in, or are traveling to, an area where mosquitoes are a problem."
Dr. Logan said private veterinary practitioners can administer an effective
"two-way" vaccine that protects equine against both Eastern and Western
Encephalitis. She suggested that producers in South Texas consult with their private
practitioners about using a "three-way" vaccine that also will protect the
animals from a foreign form of the disease, known as "Venezuelan Equine
Encephalitis," or "VEE." In l971, VEE jumped from Mexico to Texas, and an
"all out" effort was undertaken by federal, state and private entities to save
horses and keep the illness from spreading. More than 2.8 million horses in 19 states were
vaccinated against the disease in two years. "VEE has been diagnosed in Colombia,
South America, and on occasion, there have been cases reported in Mexico. Protecting
equine in South Texas against VEE makes good sense," said Dr. Irby. "On the
other hand, if an equine is destined for international shipment, use only the 'two-way
vaccine, as the animal could have a 'false-positive' result on VEE tests that may be
required prior to movement." Encephalitis vaccines for horses require two injections,
30 days apart. To remain effective, a 'booster shot' is needed annually or biannually. He
said some veterinarians also employ the vaccines in an off-label use to protect ratites,
such as emus, rheas and ostriches.
Protecting Human and Livestock Health
"Whenever we see encephalitis diagnosed in equine, it is an indication that
infected mosquitoes are in the vicinity," commented Dr. Garrett. "To protect
human and animal health, destroy breeding grounds for mosquitoes and protect yourself and
your animals with insect repellent."
"Be sure to use only insect repellents and insecticides that are approved for use
on and around animals, and follow label instructions," said Dr. Irby. "A product
containing synthetic pyrethroid compound, such as permethrin, may offer the best
protection. Consider reapplying repellent on the animal after it has been exercised or
ridden, as sweat can dilute the effectiveness of a product."
Dr. Garrett said birdbaths and troughs should have fresh water, and optimal
chlorination should be maintained in pools. Flowerpots and other containers that hold
stagnant water should be drained, and roof gutters should be cleaned yearly. Control
stagnant puddles that collect around stables.
Both health officials reminded equine owners to seek appropriate medical care if they
or their animals develop illness compatible with either West Nile Virus or encephalitis.
As some of you know, the top PHBA mare in the Nation was tragically electrocuted in May
when she bit thru the clipper cord while being prepared for a show. As some of you also
know, my husband, Steve, is
an electrician by "original trade" and is well-versed in the National
>Electric Code. Although he is forever yelling at me to watch the cords around horses,
I asked him if this really was possible and he emphatically said YES. However (whew!) our
barn which he re-wired when we bought it, has "ground fault protected circuits"
which means should a horse, or mouse, or careless person with knife/scissors, cut thru a
cord, that circuit will cut off and the person/horse will not be electrocuted.
Then I asked him about show grounds...what if their circuits weren't "ground fault
protected"? We're always using using clippers and fans, etc...and he said the best
thing to do is use a "portable ground fault". So off to Home Depot we went, and
for $30 he got me a "Portable GFCI, with 3-Outlet Power Block". It was in the
extension cord section. The brand we got is "Electricord", Catalog No.
A-1400-003-BO. MAKE SURE which ever kind you get states clearly that it "Meets
National Electric Code and OSHA requirements". You use it like a surge
protector...plug it into an outlet then plug your fans, clippers, lights, even another
extension cord, into that. It will now be a permanent fixture in my tack box and I will
pull it out first thing when I get to shows! Get to Home Depot, or hardware store, and get
one. Or several if the circuit box in your barn is not ground fault protected.
From: carla everett [ceverett@tahc.state.tx.us]
Sent: Friday, July 13, 2001 9:58 AM
In response to the large number of callers requesting information about Anthrax, a new,
free brochure is being offered by the Texas Animal Health Commission..
Below is the text from the flyer. If you'd like to have printed copies, please reply to
this e-mail
with your postal mailing address and the number of brochures you need.
Carla Everett
Information Officer
Texas Animal Health Commission
1-800-550-8242, ext. 710
What is Anthrax...and what causes it?
Anthrax is a naturally occuring disease with worldwide distribution. It is caused by
Bacillus anthracis, a spore-forming bacteria that can remain alive, but dormant in the
soil for many years. The bacteria can "bloom" and contaminate surface soil and
grass after periods of wet, cool weather, followed by several weeks of hot, dry
conditions.
Grazing animals--such as cattle, sheep, goats, exotic and domestic deer, and
horses--ingest anthrax bacteria when they consume contaminated grass. By the time an
animal displays signs of disease, including staggering, trembling, convulsions, or
bleeding from body openings, death usually follows.
Domestic and wild swine are fairly resistant to anthrax and although they may become ill,
some of these animals recover fully.
Anthrax outbreaks depend on two factors working together: the presence of the spores in
the soil...and suitable weather conditions. Outbreaks usually end when cool weather
arrives and the bacteria becomes dormant.
An outbreak may occur one year, but not the next. Death loss may occur in one pasture,
while animals nearby remain healthy.
Anthrax can occur anywhere, but in Texas, cases most often are confined to a triangular
area bounded by the towns of Uvalde, Ozona and Eagle Pass. This area, designated below,
includes portions of Crockett, Val Verde, Sutton, Edwards, Kinney and Maverick Counties.
In these counties, many livestock producers routinely vaccinate livestock against the
disease.
When anthrax outbreak begins,veterinarians will have the initial cases confirmed through
laboratory tests conducted at the Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory in
College Station. Subsequent cases in an outbreak are to be expected and may be diagnosed
clinically, based on disease signs and sudden death loss.
Anthrax is a reportable disease, and the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) is to be
notified of confirmed and suspected cases. Reports can be made to TAHC area offices, or to
the TAHC headquarters at 1-800-550-8242, where a veterinarian is on call 24 hours a day.
The Situation: Summer 2001
By mid-July 2001, seven ranches in Val Verde, Uvalde and Edwards had laboratory confirmed
cases of anthrax in deer and livestock. Private veterinary practitioners and ranchers in
these counties and Real, Kinney and western Bandera Counties also had reported losses due
to the disease.
A "significant" white-tailed deer death loss was reported along in southeast
Edwards and southwest Real Counties.
During an Outbreak...Protecting Animal Health
An effective anthrax vaccine can be purchased through private veterinary practitioners,
feed stores or animal health product distributors. The injection can be administered by
private veterinary practitioners or ranchers and is recommended for:
* livestock residing in or near an outbreak
* animals that will be moved into the area, such as horses transported to trail rides.
When administering the vaccine, wear a long-sleeved shirt and use latex or work gloves to
prevent skin contamination with this "live" vaccine.
Consult your physician for treatment if you suffer a "needle stick," splash
vaccine in cuts or scratches, or if you develop a sore after handling vaccine or
livestock.
During an outbreak, white-tailed deer often suffer the most from the disease, as they
cannot be "rounded up" and handled like domestic or farmed exotic livestock.
Furthermore, the anthrax vaccine has not been approved for use in deer.
Carcass Disposal
To prevent contaminating the ground with the anthrax spores or organisms, TAHC regulations
require that property or livestock owners thoroughly burn carcasses of animals that may
have died from anthrax.
Wear long sleeves and protect your hands with gloves, and do not move or open bloated
carcasses, as this could release bacteria into the air, causing further disease spread. Do
not salvage hides, horns, antlers or any other tissue from the carcasses.
If the animal was housed in a barn, burn the animal's bedding, manure and the surrounding
soil. To disinfect panels, trailers or equipment, use an ammonia-based disinfectant,
lebeled as effective for anthrax. Follow label directions to prevent respiratory
irritation!
Pastures cannot be disinfected with chemicals. Only burning ensures that anthrax bacteria
has been killed.
Due to environmental concerns, do not use heavy oils or tires to burn carcasses!
Fuels permitted by the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC) include
gasoline, diesel or wood. Care should be taken to keep fires from "getting out of
hand."
In counties under a burn ban, burning must be coordinated with local fire authorities.
Vaccine healthy livestock and move the animals away from the carcasses, to clean pastures,
if possible.
Other Safety Precautions
Wash your hands thoroughly after handling livestock. Ranchers can contract a skin form of
anthrax that requires specific antibiotic treatment. See your physician if you develop a
sore or lesions after handling vaccine or livestock or burning carcasses.
Keep dogs out of pastures and away from carcasses during an anthrax outbreak. Although
dogs are reportedly resistant to anthrax, they can develop infection from the bacteria and
may require treatment.
Do not swim in stock tanks or stagnant ponds in pastures where death losses have occurred.
Streams are considered safer, as the moving water will dilute organisms. Report animal
carcasses in streams or rivers to local sheriff or police departments.
During an outbreak, do not consume wild hogs shot in an affected area.
Swine may have fed on carcasses. Although swine are resistant to anthrax, they may
temporarily harbor the bacteria.
During cool weather, wild hogs will be free of the disease. As always, the TAHC recommends
hunters wear latex gloves when processing game, to prevent potential exposure to bacteria,
viruses or parasites. Thoroughly cooked meat is considered safe to eat.
Do not collect antlers, skulls or horns from animals. Anthrax can survive, even if bones
are bleached.
Questa Glenn
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Fact Sheet Veterinary Services March 1992
Equine infectious anemia (EIA) is a disease that causes anemia, intermittent fever, and
severe weight loss in horses, mules, and asses. EIA is highly contagious and sometimes
fatal. There is no vaccine or effective treatment. EIA is often difficult to distinguish
from other fever-producing diseases,
including anthrax, influenza, and equine encephalitis. EIA is also known as swamp
fever, malarial fever, mountain fever, and slow fever.
Monitoring
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
is responsible for monitoring the prevalence of EIA. APHIS works closely with individual
States to develop suitable control programs and analyzes diagnostic tests for EIA at its
veterinary laboratories.
Signs of EIA
Infected animals may experience a sudden rise in temperatures, from the normal 100 øF
to 105 øF or higher. Fever attacks may be intermittent or continuous. Infected animals
may also sweat profusely, breathe rapidly, and appear depressed. They may lose weight,
even if they continue to maintain a normal appetite. Eyes become bloodshot, with a slight
watery discharge. Urination is frequent, and an infected animal may develop diarrhea in
severe cases. Swelling of the legs (known as stocking up) and the lower parts of the body
(dropsy) may occur. The weak animal will develop a wobbly or rolling gait; sometimes its
hind quarters may be paralyzed. As the disease progresses, the infected animal develops
anemia. Its mucous membranes become pale or yellowish, its pulse weakens, and its
heartbeat becomes irregular.
Not all EIA-infected animals exhibit clinical signs. Visibly affected animals may show
only a few signs, and some animals with the virus in their blood never show any signs of
the disease.
Forms of the Disease
In the acute form, febrile attacks usually last 3 to 5 days. Occasionally, the first
attack is fatal; more often, infected animals have several severe attacks before they die.
In the chronic form, animals often appear to recover, except for continued weight loss
and deteriorating condition. They may continue to live for many years. Although the
disease recurs, intervals between attacks are longer and signs are less severe than in the
acute form. Infected animals may eventually die during or following an attack.
In the inapparent form, infected animals continue to carry the virus in their blood for
as long as they live. These carriers of EIA do not show signs of the disease. However, the
inapparent form may change to the acute or chronic form after severe stress, hard work, or
the presence of other diseases.
Transmission
EIA has been reported in all parts of the United States and in many other parts of the
world where equines are present. New outbreaks are usually of the acute form, while the
inapparent form is more common in areas where the disease is well established.
The disease is transmitted naturally by virus-causing insects, especially horseflies.
EIA may be transmitted from mare to foal, or by giving healthy animals blood transfusions
from infected animals. In addition, EIA can spread by using unsterilized knives, syringes,
and tattooing or bleeding needles previously used on infected animals.
EIA kills from 30 to 70 percent of infected animals. Death rates are usually higher
when the disease is introduced into a new area. Bronchopneumonia, which frequently follows
infectious anemia, may be a direct cause of death.
Equines normally develop infectious anemia 2 to 4 weeks after exposure. However, signs
may appear up to 2 months after exposure.
What Equine Owners Can Do To Help
Owners of equines can take a number of precautions to reduce the risk of infection:
* Use disposable syringes and needles. Follow the rule: one horse--one needle.
* Sterilize instruments used in working with animals. Clean all instruments thoroughly
after each use; then boil 15 minutes to sterilize. This will prevent the spread of disease
by knives, needles, and dental and surgical equipment.
* Control biting flies in stables and pastures. The local Extension Service agent or
veterinarian can provide information about approved insecticides and other insect-control
measures.
* Do not expose infected animals to those without EIA or breed equines that may be
infected with EIA.
* Keep stables and immediate surroundings clean and sanitary at all times. Remove
manure and debris promptly, and make sure the area is well drained.
* Isolate all new horses, mules, and asses brought to your premises. Test for EIA
before grouping new equines with other animals.
* Obtain the required certification of negative EIA test status for horse shows, county
fairs, racetracks, and other places where many animals are brought together.
* Abide by State laws that govern EIA.
If You Suspect EIA
If you suspect an animal may have EIA, call your veterinarian immediately. He or she
will examine the animal, review the recent history of exposure in your area, and submit a
blood sample to an approved laboratory. Both the Coggins and the immunosorbent assay
(ELISA) blood tests are used to diagnose this disease in the laboratory.
David W. Freeman
OSU Extension Equine Specialist
Recent popular press articles have stimulated phone calls on the availability of a
"vaccine" to guard against the effects of fescue toxicosis in broodmares. The
ill effects of fescue toxicosis on broodmares has been well documented to be decreased to
no milk production, premature placenta separation and/or prolonged gestation. Our
recommendations have varied but most agree that mares must be removed from fescue sometime
between the last 90 days to two weeks before foaling to safeguard against the problems.
Several drugs have been used successively as therapeutic measures for veterinary care of
mares exhibiting signs of decreased milk production.
Domperidone is one drug alternative that combats all the ill effects of fescue
toxicosis in broodmares. It functions as a dopamine antagonist; the net result is to allow
for normal prolactin levels in the mare. Research has shown that a paste form of the drug
can be given before parturition which guards against the toxicoxis. According to a
recently published report, a daily dose of paste given every day for 25 to 30 days before
foaling will safeguard the mares without having to remove the mares from the fescue. Those
mares pulled off fescue 30 days before foaling can be given the paste 10 to 14 days before
foaling to safeguard the mares. The product is distributed through veterinarians, so those
wanting more information should contact their veterinarian. The product can be ordered by
veterinarians from the Equi-tox Center for Applied Tech, Box 2, 511 Westinghouse Road,
Pendleton, South Carolina 29670 (phone: 803-656-5155).
