The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Veterinary Services is asking the public for comments regarding equine infectious anemia (EIA) control.

The call for public comment comes after APHIS recently hosted a discussion group on approaches for EIA control. A summary document from the EIA discussion group is available online.

The Vet Services group is seeking additional public comment about EIA and how to control it through Jan. 22, 2016. The input received will be used by the group to formulate recommendations for EIA control.

EIA is a viral disease known for attacking horses’ immune systems. It is most commonly detected with the Coggins test used as standard biosecurity protocol in the equine industry. The virus is transmitted through the exchange of body fluids from an infected animal to a healthy one, often by blood-feeding insects such as horseflies. Though rare, horses have also become infected through the use of blood-contaminated instruments or needles.

Once an animal is infected with EIA, it is infected for life and can be a reservoir for the spread of disease. Obvious clinical signs of the disease include progressive loss of condition along with muscle weakness and poor stamina. An affected horse also could show fever, depression, and anemia.

Comments may be emailed to vs.sprs.equine.health@aphis.usda.gov.