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| Montesano & Tallarico, D.V.M., LLP |
| 631-366-0003 |
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Vaccinations Vaccines are preparations of killed microorganisms, living
weakened microorganisms, etc. introduced into the body to produce
immunity to a specific disease by causing the formation of
antibodies. Vaccines are very delicate compounds, which if handled or
administered incorrectly will be ineffective or neutralized. Vaccines are administered initially as a two-shot series and
then anually or semiannually. The vaccines and vaccine protocols listed below are tailored to
our practice and geographic location and follow the guidelines of
the AAEP.
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Eastern & Western Encephalomyelitis: Encephalomyelitis
is caused by a virus, which is transmitted by mosquitos. The virus
causes inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. The vaccine
is very effective against the disease. The protection lasts 6
months, therefore we recommend administrating the vaccine twice a
year(semiannually). |
Tetanus Toxoid: Tetanus is a disease caused by a
specific toxin of a bacillus (Clostridium tetani)which usually
enters the body through wounds. It is characterized by spasmodic
contractions and rigidity of some or all of the voluntary muscles
(especially of the jaw, face and neck). The bacteria is found in
horse manure. The vaccine is very effective and administered once
yearly. The vaccine is boostered in case of laceration,
surgery, or pentrating wounds. |
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Rabies: Rabies is a viral disease that infects the nervous
system of mammals. It is transmitted through contact with the
saliva of infected animals. It is 100% fatal. The vaccine is given
once yearly and is very effective. |
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West Nile Virus: West Nile virus is transmitted by
mosquitos. The virus causes inflammation of the brain and spinal
cord. Because Long Island has a long mosquito season and the
vaccine protection lasts 6-7 months, we recommend semiannual
vaccination. Horses that travel to Florida should be
boostered 2 weeks before travelling. Veterinarians in problem
areas vaccinate 2-4 x per year. |
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Rhinopneumonitis: Rhinopneumonitis is a herpes virus which
causes respiratory infections, abortions, and inflammation of
the spinal cord. The vaccine is not 100% effective and the
protection only lasts 10-12 weeks. Pregnant mares
should be vaccinated at 3.5, 7 and 9 months from the breeding date.
Horses that are travelling to shows, races, sales, etc. should be
vaccinated every 3 months. Pleasure horses that do not travel
should be vaccinated twice a year. The vaccine does not
protect against the neurologic form of the disease. |
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Influenza:Influenza is a virus that causes high fever and
respiratory infection. The vaccine is not 100% effective, and the
protecton lasts only 10-12 weeks. Horses travelling to shows,
sales, racing events, etc..should be vaccinated every 3 months.
Horses that do not travel should be vaccinated at least twice a
year. |
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Potomac Horse Fever(PHF): Potomac Horse Fever is caused by the parasite Ehrlichia risticii. Horses are infected through small land snails, mayflies, dragonflies, and stone flies that carry the parasite. It is not contagious and occurs more commonly in wet areas. The disease causes high fever, laminitis, and severe diarrhea. The vaccine is fairly effective and is administered once a year. It is administered 2-4 x yearly in -problem areas. |
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Strangles:Strangles is a bacterial disease caused by
Streptococcus equi. It is highly contagious and causes the
following signs: high fever, abscessed lymph nodes,and respiratory
infection. Horses may develop guttural pouch infections, sinus
infections, purpura hemorrhagica, laryngeal paralysis, and bastard
strangles. There is an intranasal vaccine which is more effective
than the intramuscular vaccine.The vaccine is given once a year
except in endemic barns( that have frequent outbreaks) where
semiannual vaccination is recommended. |
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