Zoonotic Diseases & Horses

A zoonotic disease is a disease that can be passed from animals to humans. Following are some related to horses and other equine. It is important to remember that the best way to protect yourself from many of these zoonotic diseases is to practice good hygiene after handling animals or their waste. Wash your hands thoroughly with hot, soapy water after any contact. Consult with your veterinarian on your animal's health, especially if it exhibits any of the symptoms of these diseases:

Campylobacter: Campylobacter is the most common bacterial cause of gastroenteritis worldwide and can be transmitted from horses to people via activities such as cleaning their stalls and grooming. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, headache, nausea, and/or vomiting lasting 3-6 days. You can also prevent campylobacter infection by avoiding contact with horses and their manure, and if contact is necessary, thoroughly wash hands and clothing afterwards.

Cryptosporidium: Cryptosporidosis is a parasitic disease that causes a mild to severe infection of the gastrointestinal system, including watery diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Most people who get cryptosporidosis get it from contaminated food or water, but the parasite may be present in horse manure, so exhibit caution when visiting and caring for horses. If you develop symptoms, contact your physician.

Salmonella: Salmonellosis is a bacterial disease. Typical symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and stomach pain that starts 1 to 3 days after infection. These symptoms usually go away after 1 week. In some cases, medical attention is required because the diarrhea is severe or the infection has affected other organs. Usually, people get salmonellosis by eating contaminated food, such as chicken or eggs. However, farm animals such as horses can carry salmonella and pass it in their feces (stool). If you have a compromised immune system, be extra cautious when visiting farms and animals at petting zoos.

If you have any questions about these diseases or concerns about your animal's health, please consult your veterinarian. If you have concerns about your health, please seek medical attention from your health care provider.