02/07/2026
As you may be aware a Strangles outbreak has been reported in the Waikato. It is confined to racing stables with no cases confirmed in the sport horse or recreational equine community but given the cross over it’s not an unlikely situation.
So, what is Strangles?
Strangles is a highly contagious disease of equids including horses, donkeys and ponies. It is the most prevalent infectious respiratory disease in horses worldwide. It is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus equi. It is called "strangles" because of the strangled breathing sounds the very ill horse may make as a result of profuse nasal discharge and the swellings that form in the head and neck region. Keep an eye out for fever, nasal discharge, swollen lymph nodes and loss of appetite, and contact your vet if you have any concerns.
A horse is considered to have a fever when its temperature exceeds 38.6 °C Temperatures of 39.2 °C or higher, or readings that continue to rise, are red flags and should prompt same-day veterinary consultation. The most accurate method is re**al measurement using a digital or mercury thermometer. Lubricate the thermometer with petroleum jelly, gently insert it into the re**um while standing beside the horse’s hind end, and hold it in place until the reading is complete. Digital thermometers often beep when ready, while mercury thermometers require 2–3 minutes. It is recommended to take multiple readings, especially if the horse has been exercising or is stressed, to establish a reliable baseline.
Most animals fully recover from strangles in two to four weeks. Although enduring immunity against re-infection is variable, in some equids it can last for years. However, not all horses develop a protective immunity upon recovery. Some horses, although they appear healthy, shed the bacteria in nasal secretions for a prolonged period and can infect nearby horses. Vaccination is available and may help reduce the severity of disease (with the caveat that prior to vaccination horses are tested because it can be deadly if administered to a horse with an active Strangles infection).
Because Strangles is already in New Zealand it is called an ENDEMIC disease. Currently there is no formal control programme for the disease but almost all of the formal equestrian sporting bodies have rules preventing strangles infected animals from attending events. Horse owners are being encouraged to stay vigilant, particularly if horses are travelling to events, competitions or mixing with other horses.
The New Zealand Equine Research Foundation and Rodmor Charitable Trust have sponsored an informative video on strangles presented by equine veterinarian Dr Paul Fraser.
Because Strangles is a highly contagious bacterial disease that can spread quickly through direct contact, shared equipment and contaminated water sources we will be closing access to all the yards and wash bays to protect our team of horses. We ask that visiting riders check the temperature of your horse(s) before coming to ride. If your horse has any nasal discharge PLEASE stay home. Until the outbreak is under control, we will not be allowing our horses to ride out with visiting horses.
Points to note:
* Streptococcus equi can survive in water for 4-6 weeks.
* Streptococcus equi can survive on fencing and in soil for 1-3 days.
* Physical distancing between infected/uninfected horses should be no less than 5 metres.
* It may be 4 weeks until this outbreak is under control.
* Vets will be providing ongoing advice around when we can relax precautionary measures.
Another thing to consider is although cases of Streptococcus. equi causing disease in humans are rare, is that when reported, they typically involve individuals who are severely immunocompromised like Daniel. I think we can all agree he has been through enough without getting an infection he cannot fight.
So, let's work together to strangle Strangles. Happy healthy horses everyone 🙂
This video is produced for educational purposes by the New Zealand ...
