Adrienne C. Wood, D.V.M.

Rotavirus is one of the most common causes of diarrhea in newborn foals.  Outbreaks are common in breeding farm environments.  The virus usually affects foals 2-5 months of age, not adults.  The diarrhea can last anywhere from 1-9 days and the virus is shed in feces up to 3 days after return to normal manure.  Treatment of foals with rotavirus includes supportive care, fluid therapy and electrolyte replacement.  Some foals may require hospitalization. 

Prevention of Rotavirus can be achieved through vaccination, and good management practices.  Vaccination of pregnant mares on endemic farms is recommended at 8, 9 and 10 months gestation to increase colostral immunity.  Vaccination will not prevent disease but will decrease the incidence and severity.  Proper management practices include making sure that all newborn foals receive a sufficient amount of good quality colostrum.  Checking IgG levels early is also recommended. 

Husbandry is a critical aspect of good management to prevent spread of disease.  The virus is shed in very large amounts by diarrheic foals.  Manure and bedding from these foals should be handled properly (as advised by your veterinarian).  Do not expose unaffected foals to foals with clinical signs.  Biosecurity measures should also be instituted on the farm such as hand washing, wearing gloves and wearing disposable shoe covers.  Good hygiene of foaling areas and keeping the mare clean after foaling are also important aspects.  Rotavirus lives in the environment up to 9 months, and is resistant to bleach and other common disinfectants.  Phenol disinfectants such as Wex-cide or Tektrol are effective at killing the virus.

If you have any questions regaridng Rotavirus, please contact the office at (609) 397-0078 and one of our doctors will be able to assist you.