What is sometimes referred to as Dermatophilosis is a skin infection caused by the bacteria Dematophilus congolensis. With warm, wet fall weather the infections become more numerous and more severe.
Two bedraggled horses in a muddy rain-soaked paddock.
The bacteria that causes rain scald and mud fever thrives in muddy, wet conditions and enters through damaged skin or sores on the horse's body and legs.
© 2017 by Elliot Moore New window.
The bacteria thrives in muddy, wet conditions, and enters through damaged skin or sores. In some cases, it may be mistaken for ringworm. The infestations of bacteria create pus that sticks to the ends of tufts of hair. When the tufts of hair fall out, scabs form over collections of pus in the tissues.
When the disease is on the legs, it is often referred to as mud fever. When the bacterial infestations are on the body, it is known as rain scald or rain rot. If not treated promptly, secondary infections by Streptococci and Staphylococci may occur.
The best prevention of rain scald and mud fever is keeping horses in dry areas with dry bedding and stalls. Horses should be stabled in dry conditions and mucking and making sure bedding and surrounding areas are clean and dry is important.
The infection causing rain scald and mud fever is responsive to a course of antibiotics, and topical agents work well. Infected areas should be clipped out, and scabs softened and lifted off. If scabs are not easily removed, soak or shampoo then until they soften and can be gently removed with a soft brush.
Since these infections are highly contagious, burning or destroying the tufts of hair and scabs will prevent further infection of other animals. A veterinarian-recommended antibacterial wash in warm water should be used to cleanse the areas where horses with the infection are housed after which the horses should be patted dry with absorbent paper towels. Continue the treatments until the skin heals.
These skin conditions sometimes lead to s staph infection. If a staph infection is suspected, it is recommended that a veterinarian does a culture since further more advanced treatment may be necessary.