Enteric coronavirus infection in adult horses.
Authors: Pusterla N, Vin R, Leutenegger C M, Mittel L D, Divers T J
Journal: Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997)
Summary
# Equine Coronavirus: An Emerging Enteric Threat Equine coronavirus (ECoV) has emerged as a significant infectious disease in adult horses since its recognition around 2010, transmitted faeco-orally through contaminated feed and water, with documented outbreaks across Japan, Europe and North America. Clinical presentation is characterised by fever, lethargy and anorexia, though colic and diarrhoea occur less frequently; laboratory findings often reveal lymphopenia and neutropenia, which can aid preliminary assessment before definitive diagnosis. Confirmation requires detection of ECoV in faecal samples via quantitative real-time PCR, electron microscopy or antigen-capture ELISA—techniques increasingly available through specialist equine diagnostic laboratories. Whilst most infections are self-limiting and respond to supportive care, the virus can compromise intestinal mucosal barrier function, occasionally progressing to serious complications including endotoxaemia, septicaemia and hyperammonemia-associated encephalopathy that substantially increase morbidity and mortality risk. For practitioners managing suspected cases, emphasis should fall on strict biosecurity protocols (particularly feed and water management), prompt diagnostic confirmation, and vigilant monitoring for systemic complications, particularly in immunocompromised or geriatric animals where disease severity may be amplified.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Implement strict biosecurity measures including feed and water sanitation during ECoV outbreaks, as the virus spreads via feco-oral contamination in adult horses
- •Recognize the non-specific clinical presentation (fever, lethargy, anorexia) and request fecal testing via PCR when ECoV is suspected, particularly during known outbreaks
- •Provide supportive care as most cases resolve self-limitingly, but monitor closely for rare but serious complications such as endotoxemia or encephalopathy that indicate compromised intestinal barrier function
Key Findings
- •Equine coronavirus is transmitted via feco-oral route through contaminated feed and water, with outbreaks reported globally since 2010
- •Clinical signs include fever, lethargy, and anorexia with less frequent colic and diarrhea; lymphopenia and neutropenia are common laboratory findings
- •Diagnosis is made through quantitative real-time PCR, electron microscopy, or antigen-capture ELISA detection of ECoV in feces
- •Most ECoV infections are self-limiting and require supportive treatment, though rare serious complications involving intestinal barrier dysfunction can occur