Equine Infectious Anemias (EIA) is a contagious viral disease that affects horses, donkeys, mules, and other equine species. It is caused by the Equine Infectious Anemia Virus (EIAV), which belongs to the Retroviridae family. EIA is characterized by recurrent episodes of fever, anemia, and multiple clinical signs, progressing from mild to severe illness.
The virus is primarily transmitted through bloodsucking insects, such as horseflies and mosquitoes, which carry the virus from infected equines to susceptible animals. Transmission can also occur through the use of contaminated needles or medical instruments, and from mare to foal during pregnancy or through milk. Direct horse-to-horse contact is considered a less common but still possible mode of transmission.
Symptoms of EIA can vary widely, ranging from mild to severe. Infected animals may experience fever, depression, loss of appetite, weight loss, weak or rapid pulse, jaundice, swelling in limbs, anemia, and even death. Some equines may become asymptomatic carriers, showing no clinical signs but still capable of transmitting the virus to other animals.
Due to its potential impact on the equine industry and the risk of transmission to other horses, regulations and control measures have been implemented in many countries to prevent the spread of EIA. These measures include mandatory testing, quarantine of infected animals, and euthanasia for confirmed carriers. Vaccines and effective insect control measures also play important roles in preventing the disease.
