By T. D. Thornton
A confirmed case of strangles has led to a state-imposed quarantine of Barn 19 at Finger Lakes Gaming & Racetrack and at a separate off-track training stable in Ontario County.
The national Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) database reported Tuesday that the precautionary quarantine was mandated by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets after a horse (that was not identified) became clinically ill July 10 after leaving the track July 8.
“Both quarantined premises have biosecurity procedures in place,” the EDCC reported. “Horses in Barn 19 will not be allowed to race until July 29 but will be allowed to train under certain restrictions. If there are any confirmed cases or signs consistent with strangles found, the quarantine may be extended. Officials will continue to monitor the situation.”
Strangles, also known as “equine distemper,” is a contagious upper respiratory tract bacterial infection that can produce coughing, nasal discharge and fever while causing lymph nodes to swell. Left untreated, the swelling can cause airway obstruction leading to death (thus the name “strangles”).
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