Equine infectious anemia

Abstract

Equine Infection Anemia Virus (EIAV) is a chronic disease caused by a virus from the family Retroviridae, genus Lentivirus, limited to horses, donkeys and mules, characterized by periodic episodes of fever, hemolytic anemia, jaundice, depression, edema and weight loss. EIAV generates bans in the transit of horses, in addition to interfere in equestrian sports events, thus taking a considerable economic importance. The agent is transmitted primarily through the bites of tabanídeos (Tabanus sp.) and the stables’ flies (Stomoxys calcitrans) which act just as mechanical vectors. The main reservoirs of the disease are inapparent carriers of the virus, mainly in troops who do not suffer periodic monitoring. The transmission is more common in warmer seasons of the year and in humid regions. The agar gel immunodiffusion test (AGID) is considered the gold standard test. In Brazil, the laboratories and technicians interested in conducting the testing must be registered at the Ministry of Agriculture. The measures of control are based mainly on a routine serological tests, removal of positive animals of the squad, besides the restriction of the animals’ movement, testing of new individuals to be placed on the troops, control of vectors population and not sharing syringes, needles and other tools that can be vehicle of infected cells. In Brazil, positive animals in AGID must be euthanized, as established by the National Program for Equine Health at the Ministry of Agriculture. The study of biological, epidemiological and prevention aspects of the disease becomes fundamental in it’s control and, consequently in the success of horse business on every country or region in witch the infection is present.