EIA (Equine Infectious Anemia) is a viral disease that affects the horses’ immune system. It is a reportable disease and all positive cases must be filed with the state veterinarians and the federal Animal and Plant Inspection Service (APHIS) office. All labs and technicians must be USDA certified to run this test.
EIA is transmitted by blood via biting insects such as mosquitoes, horse flies and deer flies. Using a dirty needle between horses can also transmit the disease. There is no cure or vaccine for this disease.
Symptoms include:
Horses are tested yearly for EIA and a negative coggins test is required at most boarding, show and racing facilities. If you are crossing state lines with your horse you will also need a negative coggins test along with a health certificate.
Click here to get easy access to your coggins and health certificates. (globalvetlink.com)
