An outbreak of equine botulism type D in Israel

An outbreak of type D botulism involved 12 horses in an equine farm in Israel. Clinical signs included progressive weakness and decreased tongue and tail tonus. Ten of the horses died. Supportive care was provided, without antitoxin administration, since it was not available. In two samples of the gastrointestinal content, the presence of Clostridium botulinum type D toxin producing bacteria was demonstrated by the mouse bioassay test. Botulism represents a severe concern, due to high mortality rate and public health problem. Since clinical signs are insufficient to make a definitive diagnosis, laboratory confirmation is required. Prevention of exposure, immunisation and early aggressive treatment may decrease mortality.