Molecular identification and haematological values of strangles (Streptococcus equi) affected mules in Pakistan

Streptococcus equi serovar equi (s. equi) causes strangles,a highly contagious purulent lymphadenitis and pharyngitis of members of the family equidae. the occurrence of s. equi in nasal discharges and pus from sub-mandibular lymph nodes in mules at lahore and sargodha districts of punjab province were studied,and total white blood cells (wbcs),mean segmental neutrophil count (msnc),lymphocytes,monocytes,eosinophils,basophils,erythrocytes,packed cell volume and haemoglobin measured at 1,2,3 and 4 weeks following the onset of strangles infection. a total of 188 nasal swabs and 62 pus samples were collected and examined; 113 (45.2%) were positive for s. equi. a higher occurrence of s. equi was recorded in mules <2 years of age compared to >2 years. total wbcs,msnc,and monocytes were significantly increased (p <.05),while the concentration of lymphocytes significantly decreased (p <.05) in infected mules.