VOICED : Test ecuestre de Rio-2016

Brazil is investigating hundreds of horses for suspected muermo, a lethal infectious disease. Two cases near Olympic facilities raised concerns, but authorities assured no risk to athletes or horses. The International Equestrian Federation approved the test event as safe. To prevent the disease, foreign horses were not brought in; instead, 20 Brazilian horses are used with restricted access. Muermo is highly contagious and can be fatal to humans without treatment. Brazilian law and international guidelines mandate the sacrifice of infected horses as the disease is incurable.

What prompted the investigation of horses in Brazil?

• A new equestrian event

• Discovery of infected horses near Olympic facilities

• Routine health check

• A request from international authorities

What measure was taken to ensure the safety of the equestrian test event?

• Importing horses from other countries

• Canceling the event

• Using only local Brazilian horses

• Vaccinating all horses

Who is allowed to approach the Brazilian horses used in the event?

• Veterinarians from any country

• Only the rider and their team

• All event participants

• Anyone with a ticket

What is a significant risk of glanders if not treated?

• It causes temporary blindness

• It results in loss of appetite

• It can lead to death

• It can cause mild discomfort

What is the recommended action for horses infected with glanders?

• Treat them with antibiotics

• Quarantine them indefinitely

• Send them to a specialized facility

• Euthanize them