Theileria equi isolate:Eagle Pass Genome sequencing and assembly

An isolate with infected red blood cell morphology similar to Theileria equi was found at the Eagle Pass, Texas quarantine station. The isolate does not test positive on the standard cELISA serological assay or by nested PCR, where the respective antigen or gene is ema1. Genome sequencing of the isolate was undertaken to determine why those tests may not be adequate in identifying horses infected with this isolate. Horses infected with Theileria equi are not permitted entry in to the United States. The Eagle Pass ema variant isolate may enter the United States undetected by current regulatory tests.