<i>Streptococcus equi</i>infections: current best practice in the diagnosis and management of ‘strangles’
Authors: Rendle David, de Brauwere Nic, Hallowell Gayle, Ivens Philip, McGlennon Abigail, Newton Richard, White Jo, Waller Andrew
Journal: UK-Vet Equine
Summary
# Editorial Summary: *Streptococcus equi* Infections and Current Best Practice in Strangles Management A multidisciplinary panel of UK veterinary experts—encompassing practitioners, academics and social scientists—convened in 2021 to synthesise current evidence on strangles diagnosis and management, addressing both established research and gaps where clinical consensus was required. Using a modified Delphi approach, the group systematically reviewed the literature and reached agreement on practical recommendations for field veterinarians, documenting areas of consensus whilst transparently presenting alternative viewpoints where evidence remained conflicting. The resulting guidance represents a significant resource for UK practitioners, as strangles remains a common and economically damaging infectious disease with variable presentation and management approaches across the profession. Key recommendations address diagnostic protocols, antimicrobial use, quarantine measures and monitoring for complications—all critical areas where inconsistent practice can prolong infection duration, increase transmission risk or predispose to serious sequelae such as bastard strangles. This expert consensus document provides veterinary surgeons with evidence-based decision-making frameworks to optimise outcomes, standardise approaches to reduce unnecessary antibiotic exposure where appropriate, and ultimately improve biosecurity and animal welfare across affected equine populations.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Use this consensus guideline to inform your strangles diagnosis and management protocols, especially where research evidence is limited or conflicting
- •The document provides practical recommendations specifically designed for field veterinarians managing strangles cases
- •Current best practice information is now available to standardize approaches across UK equine practice
Key Findings
- •Expert consensus document synthesizing current best practice for diagnosis and management of strangles in UK equine practice
- •Evidence-based recommendations developed through modified Delphi process incorporating published research and expert opinion where evidence gaps exist
- •Document addresses diagnostic approaches, management strategies, and practical recommendations across a range of clinical expertise