Stable Quarantined After Infection Diagnosed

BRIGHTON (WWJ/AP) - Brighton Recreation Area's riding stable has been quarantined and several horses there have been diagnosed with an infection called equine strangles.

The Livingston County Daily Press & Argus of Howell reports the quarantine likely will be four to six weeks, and possibly into November.

The infection, also known as equine distemper, can be fatal to horses in some cases, but most recover. It can't be transmitted to humans. Stable operator Christy Wilson said the infection is "similar to strep throat in humans."

Wilson said the infection first was diagnosed in a horse at the stables Tuesday after the horse exhibited symptoms of the infection Monday. Wilson said the riding stable, which hosts about 70 horses, was immediately quarantined.

Wilson said at least three other horses have symptoms.

Strangles is a highly contagious upper respiratory tract infection with symptoms that include fever, heavy nasal discharge and swollen lymph nodes resulting in pus discharges in the animal. The infection is spread through the direct exposure to nasal discharge of afflicted animals.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.