Strangles (Streptococcus equi) has been confirmed in the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, Ontario. An 11 hear old Haflinger gelding was purchased along with 2 other horses at an auction on June 8, 2024 in Grey County. The horses were brought home and immediately isolated. A few days later the gelding developed a thick nasal discharge and some sinus swelling. PCR testing of the nasal discharge was positive for S. equi. The other two horses are being monitored for fever/clinical signs.
The facility owner is working with their veterinarian to continue animal movement restrictions and implement infection control procedures.