Equine infectious anemia in 2014: live with it or eradicate it?

Abstract

In the absence of an effective vaccine, the success of the test and removal approach for the control of equine infectious anemia (EIA) cannot be overstated, at least in those areas where testing has been traditionally routine. This article addresses 4 main aspects: what has been learned about EIA virus, host control of its replication, and inapparent carriers; international status regarding the control of EIA; diagnostic and laboratory investigation; and reducing the spread of blood-borne infections by veterinarians. An attempt is made to put these issues into practical contemporary perspectives for the equine practitioner.

Keywords: Agar gel immunodiffusion test; Equine infectious anemia; Host immune response; Serology; Transmission by insects and man.