On October 25, 2024, positive equine infectious anemia (EIA) results were confirmed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) national reference laboratory for seven horses located on a premises in the rural municipality of Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan. The horses had been tested by the CFIA as part of an on-going disease investigation. Clinical signs of disease were noted at the time of sampling.

A CFIA investigation is underway and as per program policy, movement controls have been placed on the infected horses and any on-premises contact animals. Initial reports indicate there are 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.