On June 13, 2024, positive equine infectious anemia (EIA) results were confirmed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) National Reference Laboratory for a horse located in the Winnipeg Regional District, Manitoba. The horse was housed at a competitive equine event facility at the time of detection and had been tested by an accredited veterinarian at the owner’s request to fulfill a facility biosecurity requirement. No clinical sign of the disease was noted at the time of sampling. 

A CFIA investigation is underway and, as per program policy, movement controls have been placed on the infected horse and any on-premises contact animals. Initial reports indicate there are several other equines on the affected premises. Movement controls will remain until all disease response activities have been completed, including follow-up testing and ordering the destruction of confirmed cases. Trace-out activities may require the CFIA to undertake actions at additional premises, as outlined in the current policy. Improved biosecurity protocols have been strongly recommended to the owners to help control the ongoing spread of EIA and protect our national herd.