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Should horse owners be concerned about Potomac horse fever?By Frank Hurtig DVM, MBA, Director, Veterinary Services, Merial Question: I don't live in the Northeast, should I still be concerned about Potomac horse fever? Answer: Yes. Potomac horse fever is known to occur in 43 U.S. states, three Canadian provinces, parts of South America, The Netherlands, France and India. This disease is not just a concern for Northeasterners. Because one type of PHF test can be inaccurate, the true geographic range of the disease is not known. PHF recently was found in nontraditional areas like Wyoming and Minnesota. The disease commonly occurs near bodies of water during spring, summer and early fall. PHF is likely transmitted when a horse ingests aquatic insects, such as caddisflies and mayflies, while grazing near a stream or river. The insects also could be attracted to a nearby stable's lights and find their way into feed and water sources. After infection, the disease can incubate for one to three weeks before signs appear. PHF is serious, up to 30 percent of horses die from the disease. The signs can include mild depression, anorexia, diarrhea and abortion in pregnant mares. Some horses develop severe toxemia, and up to 40 percent of PHF cases founder. No matter where you live, PHF may be prevented with vaccination. In one study, Potomavac from Merial protected 86 percent of horses from clinical disease. Potomavac is proven safe for horses as young as 3 months. Plus, it is available as a combination of Equine Potomavac + IMRAB to help protect against both PHF and rabies. Dr. Hurtig is the director of the Merial Veterinary Services team. Before joining Merial, he worked in an equine and mixed-animal practice in Colorado. Dr. Hurtig earned his doctorate of veterinary medicine from Kansas State University and his master of business administration from the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School. 10/27/08 Date: 10/17/08
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