African horse sickness

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African Horse Sickness

African horse sickness (pronunciation: /ˈæfrɪkən hɔːrs ˈsɪknɪs/) is a highly infectious and deadly disease caused by the African horse sickness virus. The disease is transmitted by insects and affects horses, mules, and donkeys.

Etymology

The term "African horse sickness" is derived from the geographical region where the disease was first identified, Africa, and the primary species it affects, horses. The sickness part of the name refers to the debilitating symptoms the disease causes in infected animals.

Symptoms

Infected animals may exhibit a range of symptoms including fever, difficulty breathing, swelling of the head and neck, and in severe cases, death. The severity of the disease can vary depending on the strain of the African horse sickness virus and the species of the animal.

Transmission

The African horse sickness virus is primarily transmitted by Culicoides biting midges. These insects become infected when they feed on an animal that is carrying the virus. The virus is then passed on to other animals when the infected insect feeds again.

Prevention and Control

Prevention and control of African horse sickness primarily involves vaccination and controlling the Culicoides midge population. Quarantine measures may also be implemented to prevent the spread of the disease.

Related Terms

  • African horse sickness virus - The virus that causes African horse sickness.
  • Culicoides - A genus of biting midges that are the primary vectors of the African horse sickness virus.
  • Vaccination - The administration of a vaccine to help the immune system develop protection from a disease.
  • Quarantine - A restriction on the movement of people and goods which is intended to prevent the spread of disease or pests.

External links

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