Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) is a persistent and incurable viral disease of equines (i.e. horses, donkeys, mules, zebras) which has nearly worldwide distribution. There is no available vaccine or treatment for EIA. It is a World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) listed disease and has been on Canada’s list of reportable animal diseases since 1971.

Subsequent to the release of an EIA program discussion paper in 2015 and the interest expressed by Canadian equine stakeholders to work collaboratively with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), a working group (WG) was formed. The members were asked to provide their input into the development of a new national disease control program which would address some previously identified challenges. The WG was composed of federal, provincial and industry representatives from all regions and their work and recommendations are outlined in this document.

Click here to read the details of the proposed changes, which are to be implemented by 2018.