10/09/2026
🐴 Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA): What horse owners should know
Within the last month, there have been 2 confirmed EIA cases in Ontario.
🦠 How does it spread?
EIA is primarily transmitted through infected blood, most commonly by biting flies. Reusing needles, syringes, or contaminated veterinary equipment can also spread the virus.
🔎 What are the signs?
Fever, lethargy, weakness, weight loss, pale or yellowish mucous membranes, and swelling of the limbs can occur. However, many infected horses show no outward signs and remain carriers for life.
🩸 Why is Coggins testing important?
Testing helps identify infected horses that could unknowingly spread the disease. A non-negative screening result requires further testing to determine whether infection is confirmed.
🚨 What happens if a horse is confirmed positive?
EIA is a federally reportable disease. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) will oversee the response, which can include quarantine, movement restrictions, testing of exposed horses, and an order for the infected horse to be humanely euthanized.
There is currently no effective vaccine or cure for EIA, making prevention and appropriate testing essential.
💙 At REVS, we believe education and proactive horse care are important parts of protecting individual horses and the wider equine community.
Questions about EIA testing? Contact us.
