Equine Infectious Anemia

Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) is caused by equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV), a lentivirus in the family Retroviridae. EIA has been found nearly worldwide. Countries free of EIA include Iceland and Japan.

Clinical signs can vary widely. Most infected horses are asymptomatic, showing no signs of disease. Acutely infected animals may develop a fever, go off feed, or die suddenly. A chronically infected equine may develop non-specific signs such as weight loss, weakness, anemia, and swelling of the legs, chest, and abdomen.

Once acquired, EIA is a chronic, life-long infection with no known cure and no vaccine for prevention. Chronically infected equids serve as reservoirs of the virus for potential transmission to other equids.