Coggins Test: What It Is and Why It Matters
The Coggins test is a critical blood test for horses to detect Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA), a serious and potentially fatal viral disease.
What is Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA)?
EIA is a contagious disease transmitted by biting insects like horseflies and deer flies. It weakens the immune system, leaving horses susceptible to infections and other health problems.
What Happens if the Test is Positive?
A positive Coggins test result indicates that the horse has been exposed to the EIA virus.
Important Note: A positive result does not always mean the horse is actively sick.- Further Testing: If the initial test is positive, further testing is required to confirm the diagnosis.
- Quarantine: Infected horses must be isolated to prevent the spread of the disease.
How Does the Coggins Test Work?
The test detects antibodies in the horse’s blood that the immune system produces in response to the EIA virus.