Biosecurity Queensland is managing Queensland’s first case of Hendra virus since 2022 after receiving positive test results from an unvaccinated horse in south-east Queensland on 4 July.
Sadly, the horse died on the property after its condition rapidly deteriorated.
Biosecurity Queensland Acting Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Fiona Thompson said they were working closely with the horse owner to ensure the risk was contained on the property.
“Tracing and exposure assessments have been undertaken on other horses and animals on the property,” Dr Thompson said.
“We are also working with Queensland Health in relation to humans who may have had contact with the infected horse so their experts can manage the health of people involved.
“I’d like to commend the referral veterinarian for their professional management of this case and the biosecurity and human health risks that come along with a Hendra virus detection.”
Dr Thompson said vaccination of horses was the most effective way to help manage Hendra virus disease.
“Unfortunately, in this case, the deceased horse had not been vaccinated for Hendra virus,” Dr Thompson said.
“Hendra virus infection can occur throughout the year, so it’s important that horse owners and people in contact with horses take steps to protect themselves and their animals at all times.
“We’d urge them to continue to practice good biosecurity and personal hygiene measures – even if a horse is vaccinated against Hendra virus.
“If a horse becomes sick, owners should contact their veterinarian immediately.”
Queensland chief health officer Dr Heidi Carroll said Queensland Health was working closely with Biosecurity Queensland to support the public health situation.
“Our public health staff have contacted all known people who have been exposed to the infectious horse,” Dr Carroll said.
“While the Hendra virus can spread from horses to people, it is rare. We know from past cases of Hendra virus infection in horses that most people exposed remain well and don’t contract the infection.
“People who are assessed as having a high level of exposure to the infected horse will undergo prioritised testing for the virus.”
There is no vaccine for humans against Hendra virus. As a horse may be infectious with Hendra virus before becoming noticeably unwell, it is important to exercise good hygiene practices when interacting with any horse. Measures include:
– Washing hands with soap and water regularly after touching horses, particularly before eating, smoking or touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
– Covering wounds with a waterproof dressing.
– Wearing personal protective equipment if it is likely you will come into contact with body fluids from any horse.
– Washing unprotected skin with soap and water if it comes into contact with a horse’s body fluids or manure.
For more information about Hendra virus infection and human health, visit the Queensland Health website.
