Reports have indicated that horses in Alberta and British Columbia have tested positive for equine infectious anemia (EIA).

On November 12, 2021, positive equine infectious anemia (EIA) results were confirmed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) national reference laboratory for a horse located on a premises in Parkland County, Alberta. The horse had been tested by an accredited veterinarian at the owner’s request because it was exhibiting clinical signs compatible with EIA infection.

That same day, positive equine infectious anemia (EIA) results were confirmed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) national reference laboratory for a horse located on a premises in Fraser-Fort George, Subdivision A., British Columbia. The horse had been tested by an accredited veterinarian at the owner’s request because it was exhibiting clinical signs compatible with EIA infection. This horse was acquired in the last 1.5 years from the packhorse/guiding industry which has had EIA cases in the past.

A CFIA investigation is underway and as per program policy, movement controls have been placed on the infected horse and any on-premises contact animals. Initial reports indicate there are other equines on the affected premises. Movement controls will remain until all disease response activities have been completed, including follow-up testing and ordering the destruction of confirmed cases. Trace-out activities may require the CFIA to undertake actions at additional premises as outlined in the current policy. Improved biosecurity protocols have been strongly recommended to the owners to help control the ongoing spread of EIA and protect our national herd.

(EDCC)