Still No Sign Of Missing Piroplasmosis Horses
There is apparently still no evidence regarding the location of two horses with piroplasmosis that were stolen out of quarantine in Missouri. I've been trying to find out more information, to no avail. TheHorse.com quotes a senior USDA veterinarian who states that, as of June 30, the location of the horses was still not known.
This is a pretty concerning situation. While piroplasmosis is not highly transmissible, these two missing horses could be putting many other horses at risk, as well as the piroplasmosis-free status of other regions of the US (if they have been moved to other states or infected other horses that have subsequently traveled to other states).
Piroplasmosis, which is caused by the bloodborne parasite Theileria equi, is transmitted by ticks and through contaminated needles. If these horses are in an area where there are tick species that are capable transmitting this parasite, piroplasmosis could be silently spreading. Whoever took these horses, and anyone associated with this situation, are incredibly irresponsible and are putting many other horses at risk. This is another good reminder of why you need to be careful and ensure you know as much as possible about all horses (and their owners) that you allow on your property.
