Over 60% of Connecticut horses exposed to Leptospira bacteria, study finds
Reported by Phys.org · October 20 at 9:20 PM · Summary by Hoofdeck
A study published in BMC Veterinary Research tested nearly 400 horse samples from Connecticut for Leptospira exposure, using samples submitted by owners for other diseases. About 61.5% had antigens linked to at least one strain of the bacteria, with the most common serogroups being Djasiman, Grippotyphosa, Australis, Pomona and Icterohaemorrhagiae.
Background
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread through urine of infected animals and contaminated moist environments like standing water and mud. Many infected animals show no signs but can still shed bacteria. A positive antibody test shows exposure, not necessarily active infection, and it can also reflect vaccination.
Why it matters
Leptospira can cause abortion, foal illness and recurrent uveitis in horses, and exposure may be more common than many owners assume.
What you can do
Ask your veterinarian whether leptospirosis vaccination fits your horse's region, exposure risk and reproductive status. Keep water and feed sources protected from wildlife and standing water.
Written by Hoofdeck from the report by Phys.org. Background is general information, not advice about your horse; if you are worried, call your vet.