PCR test

Our research has found that the conventional target for strangles PCR tests – the SeM gene, can be lost in some strains of S. equi causing persistent infections.

We have designed a new PCR test, which targets a unique S. equi gene that has been found to be present in all 700 isolates of S. equi sent to our diagnostic laboratories in 2006/2007.

The test is more sensitive than traditional culture of S. equi. For further details of its application please see our diagnostics webpage or the STEPS and HBLB guidelines.