Rotavirus

Attention! This is a potentially life-threatening condition for your horse. Time is of the essence, contact your veterinarian immediately.Find a Vet

Rotavirus

Rotavirus is a highly infectious, non-enveloped RNA virus which is a major cause of diarrhea in foals worldwide. The severity of the disease depends on the age of onset, immune system of the foal, virulence of the virus, and magnitude of exposure. The disease is transmitted through the foals exposure to manure of infected foals. Particles of the virus can survive in the environment for up to 9 months.

Symptoms

Diarrhea (mild to severe)
Fever
Bloating
Colic signs
Weakness
Dehydration

Diagnosis

  • History
  • Clinical signs
  • Physical exam
  • Virus Isolation

Support

Therapies

TherapiesDetails
No specific antiviral therapy
Replacement of fluids and electrolyte

Prevention

  • A vaccine containing an inactivated strain of equine rotavirus is available for administration to pregnant mares in endemic areas to help prevent diarrhea in their foals.
  • Biosecurity

Prognosis

Mortality is relatively low in rotavirus infections.

Scientific Research

General Overviews

Age Range

Foals 3-4 months old are most commonly affected however it has occurred in foals from 2 days old to 5 months of age.

Causative agent