CEM Updates

We have received 2 more updates on CEM from Jos Mottershead of the Equine Reproduction site.

CEMO-positive Stallion Number Increases

The number of stallions reported as positive for the presence of /Taylorella equigenitalis/ the causative agent for Contagious Equine Metritis in the Kentucky USA outbreak has risen to six the index farm reports. Seven stallions are shown as “believed negative”, with ten more having results still pending. The OIE (Office international des épizooties) – the international reporting agency for infectious animal diseases – is however currently reporting seven positive stallions, with 320 more potentially affected (exposed) animals. It is unclear where this  number discrepancy originates, but we will update the information as applicable once confirmed.
*12/30/2008*

The second report follows:

CEM Testing Delayed by Season. Limited Federal Funding Available to Cover Some Costs

The index farm has announced that some of the fourteen remaining contact stallions that have not yet been evaluated for CEMO presence will not be cultured until January 6th, 2009, with the results therefore not being available until the second or third week of January (dependent upon findings). More information and results when available will be found on their web site at http://degraffstables.com/about-us/cem-utbreak-updates/.

It has also been announced that USDA will reimburse the UK LDDC in Lexington, KY for the cost of mailing samples and of conducting the culture tests, but that there is no confirmation of additional funding
to cover costs, although it has been requested. In the event that additional Federal funding becomes available, it is likely that it will be retro-active, so good record-keeping by affected persons is essential in order to be able to make a valid claim, ensuring that receipts are clearly identifying that they are relevant to the CEM situation. It is also suggested that contacting your congressman, senator and/or State
representative to further the cause of requesting Federal aid may be of value.
*12/30/2008*

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