Detection of Gastrointestinal Pathogens with Zoonotic Potential in Horses Used in Free-Riding Activities during a Countrywide Study in Greece.
Authors: Tyrnenopoulou Panagiota, Tsilipounidaki Katerina, Florou Zoi, Gkountinoudis Christos-Georgios, Tyropoli Konstantina, Starras Alexandros, Peleki Christina, Marneris Danai, Arseniou Nikoletta, Lianou Daphne T, Katsarou Eleni I, Petinaki Efthymia, Fthenakis George C
Journal: Animals : an open access journal from MDPI
Summary
# Editorial Summary Researchers in Greece used multiplex-PCR technology (BioFire FilmArray GI Panel) to screen faecal samples from 224 horses used in recreational riding for 22 gastrointestinal pathogens, detecting zoonotic organisms in 97 animals (43.3%), with enteropathogenic *Escherichia coli* and Shiga-like toxin-producing strains being most prevalent at 19.2% and 13.8% respectively. Courtyard housing systems showed significantly higher pathogen carriage (56.0%) compared to other housing arrangements, whilst younger horses and those on premises with livestock presented markedly elevated infection risk. Autumn sampling yielded the highest rate of concurrent dual infections, suggesting seasonal clustering of pathogenic pressure. These findings carry important implications for infection control protocols in riding establishments and livery yards, particularly regarding hygiene barriers between equine and other livestock populations and the heightened vulnerability of younger animals, which should inform targeted biosecurity measures and handler education around zoonotic transmission risks.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Implement enhanced biosecurity protocols for horses in courtyard housing systems, particularly regarding faecal hygiene and handler protection, as these environments show higher zoonotic pathogen prevalence
- •Young horses and those co-housed with livestock require more rigorous hygiene management and handler awareness of zoonotic transmission risks, especially during autumn months
- •Establish regular surveillance and communication with human healthcare providers about potential zoonotic exposures, particularly for horses used in direct human contact activities like free-riding
Key Findings
- •Gastrointestinal pathogens with zoonotic potential were detected in faecal samples from 43.3% (97/224) of horses across Greece
- •Enteropathogenic E. coli (19.2%) and Shiga-like toxin-producing E. coli stx1/stx2 (13.8%) were the most frequently detected zoonotic pathogens
- •Courtyard housing was associated with significantly higher detection rates of zoonotic pathogens (56.0%) compared to other housing types (39.7%)
- •Decreasing age of horses and presence of livestock on the same premises were significant predictors for detection of at least one zoonotic pathogen; autumn sampling predicted concurrent detection of two zoonotic pathogens