Strangles (
Streptococcus equi) has been confirmed at a farm in Wellington County, Ontario. On October 20, 2026, a suckling foal colt presented with enlarged, painful lymph nodes. The colt attended a fair 10 days prior to showing clinical signs . The colt may have come in contact with
S. equi there or at the home facility afterwards. The colt tested positive by PCR on nasal swab, confirmed on October 22, 2026. The colt is recovering. The colt was not vaccinated against Strangles. Nine additional horses were exposed.
The owner, working with their veterinarian, has implemented voluntary animal movement restrictions and biosecurity protocols. To see past and present Strangles cases in Ontario go to:
https://www.oahn.ca/resources/ontario-equine-disease-alerts/ and enter the disease surveillance portal.