You might have noticed that equine competitions and events are now beginning to request a negative result Coggins test as part of their requirements for entry into the competition or event. So – what is a Coggins test and what is it testing for?
A Coggins test is a blood test designed to determine if antibodies are present for the viral disease equine infectious anemia (EIA). A negative result means no antibodies are detected. Blood samples are taken by an accredited vet and the test performed in an accredited laboratory (accreditation by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency).
EIA is a viral disease that attacks the horse’s immune system. Symptoms of infected horses are highly variable and can resemble other diseases, so diagnosis can be difficult without doing the blood test. Symptoms could include fever, depression, small hemorrhages in mucous membranes, swelling of legs, lower chest and abdomen, fatigue, reduced stamina or weakness, rapid breathing and rapid weight loss (just to mention a few). A horse may be a carrier of the disease but not show any symptoms.
This disease is transmitted by blood. Biting insects, such as deer and horse flies, are known transmitters of the disease. The virus only survives a short time in the insects, so the disease is generally spread between horses in close proximity. As these insects thrive in wet areas, outbreaks of EIA have often been linked to horses pastured in swampy areas (thus the nickname of ‘swamp fever’ for this disease).
There is no cure for EIA. There is no vaccine available. Prevention is the key to managing this disease. The introduction of Coggins testing has made a significant improvement in managing the disease by identifying infected horses and removing them from exposing more of the equine population.
In 2014, there were three positive results in Alberta (Canadian Food Inspection Agency report as of 2014-12-31). A positive result in the Coggins test means the horse must be humanely euthanized or quarantined for life with no exposure to biting insects or other equines (very hard to do).
The Alberta Veterinary Medical Association suggests the follow guidelines to help control this disease:
- Test all horses for EIA annually. Horses at greater risk should be tested every 4-6 months;
- Farm owners and operators should require and verify a current negative Coggins certificate before introducing any new horses to the farm or ranch;
- Quarantine new horses for 45 days and observe them for any signs of illness before introducing them to the herd. Retest them if EIA exposure is suspected;
- Horse show and event managers should require and verify negative Coggins certificates for all horses entering the premises;
- Use only one disposable needle or syringe per horse when administering vaccines or medications;
- Sterilize dental tools before using them on another horse;
- Keep all stable areas clean, dry and waste-free. Practice good pasture management techniques such as removing manure and providing adequate drainage to discourage breeding sites for pests.
This disease is deadly. Good management practises on your part as a horse owner will help fight this disease.
So go on outside and hug your healthy horse – that is what I am going to do right now!
