Streptococcus equi

Streptococcus equi is a bacterium that causes strangles, an infectious disease in horses. This disease, also known as distemper of horses, primarily affects the nasal and throat passages, leading to abscesses in lymph nodes. Young horses are most vulnerable, and outbreaks are common in crowded stables. While mortality rates are low, treatment involves rest and antibiotics. Prevention strategies include isolating infected animals and maintaining strict sanitation. Vaccines are available and can lessen the severity of the disease.1

Streptococcus is a genus of spherical bacteria that typically form chains resembling strings of beads. Some species cause diseases in humans and animals, while others are used in food production, such as in the manufacture of fermented dairy products.2