Zoonotic pathogens in equids in Central Europe: a systematic review.
Authors: Arshad Aisha, Reif Anna Helga, Cavalleri Jessika-Maximiliane V, Desvars-Larrive Amélie
Journal: BMC veterinary research
Summary
# Editorial Summary Central European equids are exposed to a substantial range of zoonotic pathogens, with 256 peer-reviewed publications documenting naturally occurring infections across Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Liechtenstein, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland over nearly six decades. Arshad and colleagues systematically catalogued these pathogens and examined research trends by searching PubMed, Scopus, and CABI databases, identifying emerging disease concerns and collaboration patterns within the region's equine research community. The breadth of zoonotic threats—spanning bacterial, viral, parasitic, and fungal agents—reflects the increasingly diverse roles equids play in contemporary society, from sports and companionship through to food production and working animals, each creating distinct transmission pathways to human handlers. For farriers, veterinarians, and other equine professionals, understanding the regional prevalence and epidemiology of these zoonoses is essential for implementing appropriate biosecurity measures, personal protective equipment protocols, and client communication strategies. This systematic review provides an evidence-based foundation for risk assessment within Central Europe and identifies research gaps that may inform future surveillance and prevention efforts across the region.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Equine practitioners in Central Europe should be aware of documented zoonotic pathogen risks associated with equid contact, given horses' roles as companion animals, sports animals, and food production sources
- •Understanding regional pathogen distribution helps inform biosecurity protocols and occupational health precautions for handlers, veterinarians, and farriers working with equids
- •This systematic catalogue provides evidence-based reference for zoonotic disease surveillance and risk assessment in equine practice
Key Findings
- •Systematic review identified 256 publications on zoonotic pathogens in equids across Central Europe spanning 1964-2022
- •Review catalogued zoonotic pathogens detected in equids across nine Central European countries (Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Liechtenstein, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland)
- •Analysis examined research trends and international collaborations in equid zoonosis studies within the region