Epidemiology of Corynebacterium equi in horses

Using a selective medium, the epidemiology of Corynebacterium equiin horses was studied. Twelve horse studs in different geographical locations were investigated. In addition, a group of horses was monitored over a period of time to determine whether faecal carriage of C equiis constant or intermittent. It was found that C equicould be recovered from every property tested and from all horse breeds. The organism was found in mares, stallions, yearlings and two year olds, and foals aged from 10 days to several months. It appears that C equiis widespread and that its occurrence is not related to any particular geographical location nor to a limited number of properties within a given area. Furthermore, it seems likely that C equiis part of the normal equine faecal flora. The results challenge the notion that C equiis primarily soil associated and do not support the concept that there are infected and non-infected areas.