Leptospirosis Vaccination Guidelines

Equine leptospirosis (Leptospira inerrogans) has been found worldwide, with serovar prevalence varying by region.  The leptospiral-associated equine clinical disease presentations include uveitis, placentitis, abortion and acute renal failure. Infection is acquired through exposure to the organism via the mucous membranes or abraided skin. The leptospiral organisms are shed in the urine and body fluids of infected animals (including wildlife hosts). Leptospira spp. Can contaminate water and soil.  Seroprevalence data from healthy horses indicate that it is common for horses to carry titers to multiple serovars.

Vaccine:

There is currently one vaccine approved for use in horses. It is a killed, whole cell bacterin.

The product is labeled as an aid in the prevention of leptospirosis caused by Leptospira interrogans serovar pomona.

Vaccination Schedule:

• Unvaccinated adult horses: Administer two doses with a 3 to 4-week interval between doses.
• Vaccinated adult horses: Annual revaccination
• Pregnant mares: The product has demonstrated safety in pregnant mares.  Vaccinate according to schedule for adult horses.
• Foals: The product has demonstrated safety in foals >3 months of age. Vaccinate according to schedule for adult horses at 6 months of age. The product has demonstrated safety in foals >3 months of age.

Reviewed and revised 2019