Equine Infectious Diseases V

The dramatic increase in the international movement of horses has led to the spread of infectious disease and the emergence of several “new” diseases, giving rise to concern in the expanding worldwide horse industry. This concern has stimulated considerable research effort, focused on improving methods of diagnosis, understanding the modes of transmission, and developing appropriate means of control. Equine Infectious Diseases V presents the most up-to-date results of this research and is an essential reference for those interested in equine disease investigation. These proceedings present a tremendous amount of information acquired in the ten years since the previous conference.

The topics covered include influenza, herpesviruses, strangles and other respiratory infections, infections of the reproductive system, vector-borne diseases, and gastrointestinal infections. Forty-one papers are included, by acknowledged authorities from the United States, Europe, Japan, and Australia. Original research findings are presented on several of the “new” equine diseases, including contagious equine metritis, Potomac horse fever, and Lyme disease. Extensive information is provided on equine influenza, herpesviruses, strangles, and equine viral arteritis, where modern biotechnology is providing innovative and improved methods for diagnosis and control. The reports of sophisticated molecular studies on equine herpeseviruses will lead to a better understanding of how viruses of this group cause disease in the horse.

Novel approaches to improving potency and efficacy of influenza vaccines are discussed, as well as the first results of a vaccine against Potomac horse fever. The successful use of a live modified vaccine to prevent the spread of equine viral arteritis is reported.