New veterinary research will help to save foals from ‘rattles’ –a debilitating and often fatal disease.

The bacterial lung infection commonly affects foals aged between one and six months, leaving immune competent yearlings or older horses unaffected.

A recent study, published by the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC), used a specialised respiratory monitor to discover that the disease is commonly transmitted through dust in laneways and holding pens.

The report, Rattles in Horses, was launched this evening by RIRDC Chair Ms Mary Boydell, who said that this research was a good example of high calibre, targeted research that brings real benefits to all sectors of the horse industry.

The researchers, Professor Glenn Browning, Dr Gary Muscatello and Dr James Gilkerson of the University of Melbourne’s School of Veterinary Science, used novel microbiological sampling methods to assess the risk associated with particular horse farm environments.

“The results suggest that foals may be able to transmit the virulent bacteria to each other and that some control may be achieved by avoiding close contact between foals,” said Coolmore Stud vet and RIRDC Horse R&D Committee member Dr John Freestone.

“In addition, the sampling of exhaled breath from foals may prove to be a sensitive diagnostic technique for the early detection of infected foals.”

 “The disease can affect a number of body systems but most commonly causes pneumonia, with abscess formation throughout the lung fields.” Dr Freestone said.

“Stud managers in affected areas become skilled at recognising foals with the disease. There are no symptoms early in the disease, but over time the foals develop poor condition, noted by weight loss and a coarse hair coat, and some foals may cough.”

“Once the disease becomes well established, it is difficult to treat effectively. The treatment is expensive and requires a prolonged course of treatment,” he said.

“This study gives us a better understanding of how the disease is spread to foals, and will help in preventing it.”

Along with Rattles in Horses, Ms Boydell launched the RIRDC Horse R&D Plan for 2006-2011, which sets a program of research and development to ensure that research investments meet the needs of the horse industry.

“The horse industry is one of Australia’s biggest rural industries, contributing more than $6.3 billion to the Australian economy,” Ms Boydell said.

“The RIRDC Horse R&D Program is a partnership between the horse industry and the Australian Government, to provide research and development that supports a more profitable, dynamic and sustainable rural sector,” she said.

Rattles in Horses is avbailable for download at:  http://www.rirdc.gov.au/reports/HOR/06-097.pdf

The Horse R&D Plan 2006-2011 is available from RIRDC on  02 6272 4819 or at http://www.rirdc.gov.au/pub/hor5yr.html

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Media enquiries:   Martin Field – RIRDC Public Affairs Manager: 02 6272 4735