According to a news release from the Florida Department of Agriculture - Consumer Services, Animal Industry Division, more than 60 suspected cases of pigeon fever in horses have occurred in Florida so far in 2012. Cases have been identified in Okaloosa, Walton, and Marion counties according to the release.
More cases of Pigeon fever in US
Pigeon fever bacteria lives in soil and usually enters the horse's body through wounds, broken skin or through mucous membranes.
Previously the disease has been seen mostly in dry, hot areas such as Texas and California. "However, in recent years pigeon fever has spread further east with recent outbreaks in Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, and now Florida," according to the report.
The disease is caused by the bacteria Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis which is found worldwide. The bacteria lives in soil and usually enters the horse's body through wounds, broken skin or through mucous membranes. It is possibly transmitted by flies and other insects. Common houseflies have been shown to carry the bacteria.
Known by a number of names, including pigeon breast, dryland distemper, dryland strangles and false distemper, prognosis for a complete recovery is good, although some horses experience multiple episodes.
The disease occurs in three forms: external abscesses, internal abscesses and limb infection, also known as ulcerative lymphangitis.
The most common form of the disease in the United States involves external abscesses that form deep in the muscles and can be very large, giving the horse the appearance of a pigeon breast.
Owners in affected areas should closely monitor their horses for signs of pigeon fever. Owners whose horses exhibit signs of pigeon fever should contact a veterinarian forconfirmation of the disease and treatment options. In confirmed cases, infected horses should be isolated and owners should implement good biosecurity practices.