The Canadian Food Inspection Agency sent us the following news release:

OTTAWA, December 24, 2008 – The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has launched an
investigation after confirming that horse semen was imported into Canada from a United States stallion
subsequently determined to be infected with contagious equine metritis (CEM). There are no human health
implications with this disease.

United States officials have confirmed that three stallions on a Kentucky farm tested positive for CEM.
Shipments of frozen semen from one of these stallions were sent to Ontario and Alberta in the spring of
2008. CFIA and provincial animal health officials are currently tracing the shipments to identify potentially
exposed animals. As a precaution, the CFIA will place these animals under quarantine until they have
tested negative for CEM.

CEM is a highly contagious disease that affects the reproductive tract of horses. The disease can cause
temporary infertility in mares. In most cases, CEM can be successfully treated with disinfectants and
antibiotics. CEM is a reportable disease in Canada. This means that all suspected cases must be reported
to the CFIA for immediate investigation by inspectors. There are international trade implications if a
country loses its CEM-free status.

Until more information is available from the U.S., the CFIA is recommending that the equine industry and
importers in Canada exercise caution and refrain from importing breeding horses, embryos and semen
from the U.S.

CEM is primarily spread directly during natural breeding, but can also be transmitted during artificial
insemination and through contaminated instruments and equipment, such as tail bandages, buckets,
sponges and gloves. Therefore, horse owners and veterinarians should maintain strict hygiene when
handling breeding mares and stallions to prevent infection.

Infected stallions tend to be the major source of infection, as they can harbour the disease for years
without showing any clinical signs. The primary symptoms of infection in mares are short-term infertility
and vaginal discharge, but some mares can also carry the disease without clinical signs. Any horse owner
or veterinarian who suspects a horse under their care may be infected with CEM should immediately
contact their local CFIA District office (a listing can be found in the blue pages of local phone directories).
The CFIA will continue to work with provincial counterparts, affected producers and the equine industry in
this response effort. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.

More information about CEM is available on the CFIA Web site at www.inspection.gc.ca or by calling 1-
800-442-2342

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