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Coggins: Why is it important?
By Dr. Helen Hughes
Year after year horse owners have a “Coggins” performed on their
horse; the veterinarian draws blood, makes a description of the
horse including a drawing of any distinguishable markings, and
the owner is notified of the results. Some of you
may be asking, “What is a Coggins?” and “Why is it important
to get my horse tested?”
“Coggins” is a common name for the test that identifies whether
or not your horse has Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA). This
disease is caused by a virus that stimulates the immune system
to destroy red blood cells resulting in anemia in infected horses,
mules, and donkeys. Subsequently, this may lead to damage of
vital organs and secondary infections such as pneumonia. There
are three forms of the disease acute (early), chronic, and inapparent. Symptoms
of acute disease are non-specific and can include fever, decreased
appetite, fatigue, depression colic, abortion, etc. Chronic
signs are characterized by recurrent flare ups of the acute signs,
in addition to loss of body condition and frequently secondary
infections. The inapparent carriers may be asymptomatic,
showing no sign of the disease, but are still a contagious risk
to non-infected animals. Because the clinical signs of
EIA are non specific, making an accurate diagnosis involves a
thorough history, physical exam, bloodwork, and specific testing. There
is no cure for EIA so if an animal is infected, it is infected
for life. Treatment of the disease consists of supportive
care and treatment of the secondary infection where applicable;
these animals may succumb to frequent episodes of illness that
could result in death.
There is no vaccine for EIA, thus the only way to prevent the
disease is to ensure that your horse is not exposed to an infected
horse. The disease is transmitted (spread) by bloodsucking
insects, contaminated needles/equipment, or across the placenta
from a pregnant mare to the foal. Most managers of
boarding facilities, horse shows, and horse sales are aware of
these risks and require a negative Coggins for all adult horses
entering the premises.
The United States Department of Agriculture and state animal health regulatory
agencies have addressed EIA by attempting to eradicate the disease through frequent
testing and required euthanasia or strict lifelong quarantine for horses testing
positive for EIA. Health certificates to travel across state lines
require a current Coggins according to the specifications of the state; for Wisconsin
that is a negative Coggins issued within that calendar year. Despite these
measures there are hundreds of cases of EIA diagnosed within the United States
each year, so it is important to have your horse tested yearly. If you
have further questions regarding EIA or specific state regulations please contact
your veterinarian. |
