Equine Infectious Respiratory Disease – Field Diagnostic Guidelines

The AAEP Field Diagnostic Guidelines provide step-by-step instruction for the diagnostic work-up and management of clinical syndromes commonly encountered in equine practice. They are intended to help practitioners determine appropriate samples and tests necessary to achieve a definitive diagnosis while implementing appropriate biosecurity measures.

Equine respiratory diseases, whether infectious or noninfectious, can significantly impact individual horse health and performance, and contagious respiratory disease may impact overall herd health. Equine respiratory disease etiologies range from viral and bacterial infections to environmental allergens or inflammatory factors. Diagnostic testing to determine the etiology of equine respiratory disease is strongly recommended in order to provide targeted treatment strategies, implement biosecurity protocols, and support overall herd health.

Flowchart reprinted with permission from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.