Background: Rhodococcus equi mainly affects foals and is associated with a range of clinical presentation of which respiratory signs are the most common. Inhalation of bacteria harbouring a virulence plasmid (VapA+) is considered the main route of transmission. Objectives: Evaluate foals' exposure to R. equi and R. equi VapA+ by looking for these bacteria in the soil, faeces, air and on the surface of mares' udders and foals' nostrils. Study design: Samples (217) were collected between February 2023 and June 2024 from 3 stud farms in northwest France. After culturing, bacteria were detected by PCR. Methods: Main limitations: Study conducted over only 2 years and 3 studs. Results: Ethical animal research: The authors attest that ethical review for this minimally invasive work is not required in their institute. Informed consent: Authorisation from owners was obtained. Competing interests: None declared. Funding: Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation as part of the project “Air equi.”