Vesicular stomatitis.
Authors: Timoney Peter
Journal: The Veterinary record
Summary
# Vesicular Stomatitis: An Emerging Threat to Equine Health During a significant outbreak affecting over 800 premises across eight US states, Peter Timoney from the Gluck Equine Research Center examined the epidemiology and clinical significance of vesicular stomatitis (VS) in horses. This zoonotic viral disease presents a dual concern: it causes economic losses through production impacts in affected animals whilst simultaneously posing transmission risks to humans and other livestock species. The outbreak highlighted the importance of rapid diagnosis and understanding transmission routes, particularly given the disease's potential to spread between equine, bovine and porcine populations. For equine professionals, recognition of early clinical signs—oral erosions, excessive salivation, lameness and coronary band lesions—is critical for initiating quarantine protocols and notifying authorities. Given VS's zoonotic nature and its capacity to disrupt regional animal movements through trade restrictions, practitioners should maintain current knowledge of local disease status and implement rigorous biosecurity measures during any suspected outbreak, including appropriate personal protective equipment when handling affected animals.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Recognize vesicular stomatitis as an emerging disease concern in equine populations across multiple US states
- •Understand the zoonotic nature of this disease and implement appropriate biosecurity and personal protective measures
- •Consult with specialists at research institutions like the Gluck Equine Research Center for detailed guidance on diagnosis and management
Key Findings
- •More than 800 premises across eight US states reported vesicular stomatitis cases in horses
- •Vesicular stomatitis is a zoonotic disease with potential implications for both equine and human health