Getting to Grips with Strangles
Streptococcus equi, the bacterium that causes Strangles.
Stockholm plays host to an international Strangles Conference over 27/28 May when scientists and veterinary surgeons from all over the world congregate at Ulfsunda Castle to further their knowledge on this devastating equine disease.
Strangles is the most commonly diagnosed infectious disease of horses worldwide and is of major welfare and economic importance. The conference will discuss recent scientific advances made possible through the completion of the Streptococcus equi and Streptococcus zooepidemicus genome sequencing projects and their implications for the prevention of Strangles.
Carl Robinson, senior scientist at the Animal Health Trust, said: “Access to the genetic makeup of these closely related bacteria has revolutionised our ability to design better diagnostic tests and vaccines. This meeting is a fantastic opportunity to bring together the world experts and really make a difference towards the eradication of Strangles.”
Further information on the conference is available from www.aht.org.uk
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
