EI affects horses in a similar way as the "common flu" affects humans. EI is easily transmitted, and produces a range of clinical signs such as high temperature, coughing, runny nose, etc. Young, pregnant, nutritionally and/or physically stressed, and older horses are more susceptible to EI, and some of these animals might die. The majority of horses will eventually recover.
There is no vaccine for EIA. It is important that you be careful that your horse's pasture mates are as healthy appearing as your own horse. Board your horse only where a negative Coggins test is required of all horses before they come on the premises. This is your best protection.
More details......HORSE VITAL SIGNS
HEART RATE.....36-44 beats/minute (this can decrease with conditioning and increase with pain or excitement). Heart blocks can also affect rate. Confirm this with your Veterinarian your horse.
RESPIRATORY RATE.....12-16 breaths/minute (this will increase with exercise, stress or disease).
TEMPERATURE.....99-101.2 degrees (this can vary with exercise, ambient temperature, and/or disease).
MUCOUS MEMBRANE COLOR.....pink.
SKIN TURGOR.....< 1 second (used to help assess hydration).
TURGOR: The normal fullness or tension produced by the fluid content of blood vessels, capillaries, and plant or animal cells.
GI MOTILITY.....gut sounds of varying intensity are usually always present.
MOTILITY: moving or capable of moving spontaneously
STOOL ..... quantity and consistency varies slightly with each individual. Know the appearance of your horse's normal bowel movements.
DIGITAL PULSE.....should be non palpable to slight. (stronger usually indicates inflammation or disease).
HOOF TEMPERATURE.....usually ambient to luke warm. (cold or warm to hot usually indicates disease)
Please note........., these normal ranges are meant only to serve as guidelines. Each horse can vary depending on many factors. Please consult with your Farrier and/or Veterinarian.