GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - Horses in North Central Florida are being cared for after an outbreak of Strangles .

Strangles is a highly contagious bacterial infection that spreads through direct contact with other horses. Recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks.

The horse industry publication “ Equus ” reported on Thursday that two horses in the region both tested positive based on information from the Equine Disease Communication Center .

A gelding in Marion County tested positive last month after exhibiting fever and other symptoms. He’s recovering, but 10 other horses at the boarding facility were exposed.

In Alachua County, a mare tested positive last week and is recovering. Fifteen other horses were exposed as well.

TRENDING: Marion County health departmen

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