Equine abortion viruses refer to a group of viral pathogens that are known to cause abortion or fetal loss in horses. These viruses are primarily responsible for reproductive failures in equine populations, leading to significant economic losses in the horse breeding industry. Equine abortion viruses belong to different families and include viruses such as equine herpesvirus (EHV), equine arteritis virus (EAV), and some strains of equine viral arteritis (EVA), among others.
These viruses can be transmitted horizontally through direct contact with infected animals or vertically from an infected mare to her fetus during pregnancy. Equine herpesvirus, for example, can persist in a latent state within the horse's body and reactivate later, causing abortion or the birth of weak or sick foals.
Symptoms of equine abortion viruses may vary depending on the specific virus involved and the stage of pregnancy. Common signs include abortion or the birth of a weak or stillborn foal, prolonged gestation, vaginal discharge, and in some cases, respiratory or systemic signs in affected mares. Laboratory tests, such as viral isolation, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and serology, are usually performed to diagnose the specific virus.
Prevention and control measures for equine abortion viruses involve practicing strict biosecurity measures, vaccination, and regular monitoring of breeding stock. Quarantine and isolation of infected animals are essential to limit the spread of these viruses. Additionally, routine vaccination of mares against some of the known abortion-causing pathogens can help reduce the risk of infection and subsequent fetal loss.
