06/04/2026
Is Your Horse Up To Date?
A negative Coggins test is required for all travel between states and at most equine facilities/events. Most often, horses with EIA are asymptomatic carriers (showing no signs or symptoms) which is one of the reasons testing is so important. Horses positive for EIA are lifelong carriers, and pose a risk to any other horse they may be around.
Acutely infected animals may develop a fever or go off feed. A chronically infected equine may develop non-specific signs such as weight loss, weakness, anemia, and swelling of the legs, chest, and abdomen. Once acquired, EIA is a chronic, life-long infection with no known cure and no vaccine for prevention, and can even be fatal. Chronically infected equids serve as reservoirs of the virus for potential transmission to other equids.
EIA is most often transmitted by biting flies; tabanids (horse and deer flies) are considered the most significant transmitters. Other modes of transmission of EIA include the use of contaminated equipment, such as used needles and syringes; mare-to-foal transmission in utero; and through natural breeding of mares and stallions.
Obtaining a negative Coggins test ensures that the horse does not have the antibody for EIA at the time of testing. It is always recommended that horse owners regularly evaluate their horses for signs of illness. If you suspect your horse has contracted EIA or any other virus, separate them from other horses to reduce the chances of transmission and contact your veterinarian immediately. To schedule an appointment with us, please call us at 502-222-9411
