According to the Equine Disease Communication Center and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, a boarding facility in Marion County, Florida has been placed under quarantine by the FDACS as of May 23 due three horses suspected for strangles. 

According to the EDCC bulletin, 50 horses have been exposed at the Marion County facility.

There is also a confirmed case of strangles at private facility in Walton County and a confirmed case of strangles at a private facility in Charlotte County, both facilities have been placed under quarantine after confirmation on May 23.

In Walton County, an 8-year-old Thoroughbred gelding is recovering after showing clinical signs of lymph node abscess. The horse was vaccinated.

In Charlotte County, a 14-year-old Quarter Horse gelding is recovering after showing signs of nasal discharge. The horse was vaccinated.

Only the animals under quarantine have additional travel restrictions. The horse under quarantine is not allowed to leave the premises.

This is Florida’s 21st case of strangles in 2025.

The incubation period is between three to 14 days according to the EDCC.

Also known as Strep Equi, Strangles is a highly infectious bacterial infection that is spread from horse to horse through direct contact and by coming into contact with a contaminated surface. It is common and most horses are exposed and/or infected at a young age.

For more information about strangles click here.

Return to the May 24 issue of Wire to Wire