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Equine infectious anemia case in Alberta, November 22, 2021

Canadian Food Inspection Agency
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On November 22, 2021, positive equine infectious anemia (EIA) results were confirmed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) national reference laboratory for a horse located on a premises in Athabasca County, Alberta. The horse had been tested by an accredited veterinarian at the owner’s request after being made aware that the horse had commingled with infected animals during the previous summer. No clinical signs of disease were noted by the veterinarian when the animal was tested. A CFIA investigation is underway and as per program policy, movement controls have been placed on the infected horse and any on-premises contact animals. Initial reports indicate there are several other equines on the affected premises. Movement controls will remain until all disease response activities have been completed, including follow-up testing and ordering the destruction of confirmed cases. Trace-out activities may require the CFIA to undertake actions at additional premises as outlined in the current policy. Improved biosecurity protocols have been strongly recommended to the owners to help control the ongoing spread of EIA and protect our national herd.