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7 Horses Euthanized at California Racetrack Due to Infectious Disease – The Mercury News

Outbreak of Equine Infectious Anemia at Los Alamitos Race Course

In a troubling development for the equine community, seven quarter horses have been euthanized at Los Alamitos Race Course due to an outbreak of equine infectious anemia (EIA), a potentially fatal viral infection. This alarming situation has prompted state officials to take immediate action to contain the virus and protect the health of other horses at the facility.

Initial Detection and Response

The California Horse Racing Board (CHRB), which oversees the state’s racetracks, was first alerted to the outbreak on September 24, when the first case of EIA was reported. In response to this notification, the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) implemented biosecurity measures to prevent further spread of the virus. According to a CHRB advisory released on October 3, the initial infected horse was euthanized as per state and federal guidelines, and nine additional horses were placed in a quarantined cohort group for further monitoring.

The Euthanization of Additional Horses

Subsequent testing revealed that six more horses from the quarantined group tested positive for EIA. These horses were euthanized on Wednesday and Thursday of the same week, all under the care of the same trainer, Heath Taylor. The swift action taken by the authorities underscores the seriousness of the situation, as EIA is known for its infectious nature and the severe implications it has for affected horses.

Quarantine Measures and Testing

While the six infected horses were euthanized, three others tested negative for the virus. These horses will remain under quarantine and are scheduled for retesting in 60 days to ensure they remain free of the infection. This precautionary measure is vital, as EIA can persist in an animal’s system, and the risk of transmission remains a concern.

Understanding Equine Infectious Anemia

Equine infectious anemia is a viral disease that affects horses and is comparable to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in its persistence and impact on the immune system. The virus resides in the horse’s white blood cells and can be transmitted through biting flies or contaminated needles. Unfortunately, there is no cure for EIA, and horses that survive an infection become lifelong carriers. Under USDA regulations, infected horses must either be euthanized or quarantined at least 200 yards away from other horses for the remainder of their lives.

Tracing the Virus’s Origin

The CDFA is currently investigating the source of the outbreak at Los Alamitos. Preliminary findings suggest that the virus may have been transmitted during a medical treatment prior to the arrival of the first infected horse in California. This highlights the importance of stringent biosecurity measures and thorough health checks for horses entering the state.

Recent EIA Outbreaks in Southern California

This outbreak at Los Alamitos is not an isolated incident. Southern California has witnessed several EIA outbreaks in recent years. In March, two quarter horses were euthanized in Los Angeles County, with ten others placed under quarantine until they tested negative. Additionally, an outbreak in San Bernardino County in January 2022 resulted in the euthanization of eight quarter horses and the quarantine of eleven more. These recurring incidents emphasize the ongoing threat posed by EIA and the need for vigilant monitoring and response strategies.

Conclusion

The recent outbreak of equine infectious anemia at Los Alamitos Race Course serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities within the equine community. As state officials continue to investigate and implement biosecurity measures, the focus remains on safeguarding the health of horses and preventing further spread of this dangerous virus. The equine industry must remain vigilant, ensuring that all necessary precautions are taken to protect these majestic animals from such infectious diseases.