Strangles is a highly contagious upper respiratory tract infection caused by the bacteria Streptococcus equi, not a virus. The bacteria often infect the lymph nodes around the jaw, causing them to become swollen. In severe cases they can become so swollen that horses struggle to breathe properly, hence the name ‘Strangles’.

There have been the first confirmed cases of Strangles disease in Malta. Strangles in not a notifiable disease, however horse owners are advised to proceed with caution when horses develop symptoms that may be associated with Strangles, or if any horse in the yard at which they are stabled develop symptoms. 

To exercise caution, and prevent the risk of spread throughout the community, the Malta Equestrian Federation has contacted VRD (Veterinary Regulation Division) as well the MEF National Head Vet, Karen Gatt, to come up with a protocol for allowing horses into competitions and training events..

More information about the disease and precautions horse owners should take in the event of an outbreak are available on the MSD Animal Health Hub website.

Protocol on Accepting Horses for Competition or Training

Horses coming from a stable with confirmed Strangles should not be moved from the yard to prevent the risk of contagion. For this reason, the MEF will be asking for some added information about where the horse is stabled on entry forms. Should the horse be coming from a stable with confirmed cases of Strangles, they will be refused entry. Infected yards must be confirmed by a vet.

Should any horse be removed from the infected stable, they need to be quarantined for at least one week and certified by a vet that the horse is symptom free and is fit to travel.