DefinePK

Abstract

Strangles is an infectious disease of horses caused by Gram-positive bacteria Streptococcus equi, characterized by an abscess of the submandibular and pharyngeal lymph nodes and leading to obstruction of the respiratory tract. The disease has economic consequences for horse farms and significantly reduces their productivity. The study aimed to monitor the spread of beta-hemolytic streptococcus infection in horses in eight regions of Kazakhstan, isolate S. equi strains, and establish their genetic characteristics. To achieve this goal, 687 samples of swabs and blood sera from horses with clinical signs of streptococcal infection were collected. The research methods included bacteriological examination, cultivation of isolates on various nutrient media, polymerase chain reaction analysis to confirm molecular genetic characteristics, and a study of the virulence of isolates in white mice. As a result of the study, 619 positive samples out of 687 were identified, with the highest prevalence of infection in the Ulytau and Kostanay regions. Genetic analysis showed that the obtained isolates corresponded to S. equi. Thus, the conducted analysis contributes to regular monitoring and identification of persistent carriers of infection. Such control is key for effective monitoring and prevention of strangles, which will reduce economic losses and improve the productivity of horse farms.