The prevalence of antibodies to adenoviruses in horses from queensland and New South Wales.

Abstract

SummaryThe prevalence of antibodies to the EAM‐1 strain of equine adenovirus was studied in six groups of horses, totalling 433, from New South Wales and Queensland, Australia, and New Zealand. Within groups, virus neutralising antibodies were detected in 69–100%, complement fixing antibodies in 41–68% and precipitating antibodies in 10–19%. The prevalence within areas was similar. Passive transfer of colostral antibodies to equine adenovirus from the mare to the foal was demonstrated. The prevalence of antibody to EAM‐1 increased with age such that approximately 70% of yearlings and two‐year‐old horses possessed SN and CF antibodies; this incidence was similar to that of older horses.