Disease alerts - Strangles (Streptococcus equi) in Ontario, October 24, 2026 - Strangles (Streptococcus equi) in Ontario, October 24, 2026 - Strangles (Streptococcus equi) in Ontario, October 24, 2026

Back to search results

Regulatory Category- Federal:

Not regulated

Regulatory Category- Province or Territory:

Immediately Notifiable

Animal Type:

Equine

Susceptible Animal Types:

Equine

Animal Class:

Terrestrial

Disease Agent:

Strangles (Streptococcus equi)

Disease Agent Type:

Bacteria

Organization:

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA)

Region:

Ontario

Event Size:

1 individual

Problem(s):

Respiratory signs;
Other

Topics:

Endemic

Start Date

Oct/24/2026

End Date

Oct/24/2026

Website

Equine Disease Communication Center

Strangles (Streptococcus equi) in Ontario, October 24, 2026

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Agribusiness

Strangles (Streptococcus equi) has been confirmed at a farm in Brant County, Ontario. On October 22, 2026, a 7 year old pony mare developed dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), had a fever and swollen lymph nodes of the head. A nasal swab was positive for S. equi by PCR, confirmed on October 24, 2026. The horse is recovering. The horse was not vaccinated against Strangles.

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.