Streptococcus zooepidemicus

Streptococcus equi subsp zooepidemicus is a Lancefield’s group C beta-hemolytic streptococcus with the ability to ferment lactose and sorbitol and is considered a normal commensal of the oral cavity, pharynx, and respiratory tract of the horse. Most common bacterium isolated from horses with any type of pneumonia and also considered an opportunistic pathogen. 

S. zooepidemicus may cause respiratory disease (rhinitis, bronchitis, mild to severe bronchopneumonia, pleuritis, and pleuropneumonia). Also may cause endometritis-metritis during the puerperal period. Isolated from mares with uterine disease and may cause infertility. Acute mastitis occurs ocasionally in lactating mares. Streptococcus zooepidermicus bacteremia may also cause multifocal hepatic abscesses. 

In Guinea Pigs may cause cervical lymphadenitis that will cause severe swellings of the lymph nodes in the cervical region. Some affected animals may become septicemic, with lesions affecting the heart, lungs, kidney, and skin.

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References:

• Sprayberry, KA. Robinson’s Current Therapy in Equine Medicine. 7th ed. 2015.

• McGorum, BC. Equine Respiratory Medicine and Surgery. Elsevier. 2007. 

• Mitchell MA> Manual of Exotic Practice. Saunders Elsevier. 2009. 

• Smith, BP. Large Animal Internal Medicine. 5th ed. Elsevier. 2015. 

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Merk Veterinary Manual

• Metritis and Endometritis in Large Animals

• Guinea Pigs

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Links:

• Transmission of Streptococcus equi subespecies zooepidemicus infection from horses to humans

• Streptococcus zooepidemicus ScienceDirect Overview