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Applying the science of behaviour change to the management of strangles
Abstract
The Strangles Symposium in 2019 gathered equine stakeholders from across the industry to discuss the management and prevention of strangles in the UK. The understanding of Streptococcus equi is increasing as is the ability to identify and treat the disease. There is real potential to reduce the incidence of the disease, as highlighted through the guidance produced by experts in 2021. It has been recognised that the preventative measures identified require the behaviour of people across the equine industry to alter. The science of human behaviour change can support the veterinary profession in applying effective, evidence-based interventions to optimise the success of these changes. Pinpointing what behaviours are or are not being performed, and researching what is motivating these behaviours, is key to forming strategies within veterinary practice and at UK policy level, to ensure a targeted and consistent approach is available for people within the equine sector.
Strangles (Streptococcus equi) is a disease that is endemic across the world, causing disruption and economic losses where outbreaks occur (Rendle et al, 2021). Strangles is a prevalent infectious equine disease in the UK, with a mortality rate of between 1 and 10% (Boyle et al, 2018) and it is also very challenging to manage. Streptococcus equi cannot survive outside the horse long, but horses can remain infectious for prolonged periods of time without showing clinical signs. S. equi can be transmitted through fomites and has been shown to survive in the environment for up to 3 days. It can survive longer in winter, as well as in water for 4–6 weeks. Taking these factors into account, it is imperative that the behavioural actions or inactions of people working with equids are understood if this disease is to be effectively managed and prevented.
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