Horse Dies From Hendra Virus in Mackay

Biosecurity Queensland is managing a new Hendra virus case near Mackay after a positive test result was received on 22 January 2013 after one horse had died on the property after becoming unwell early this week.

Biosecurity Queensland is in the process of quarantining the property. There are other horses on the property and we will be working to determine what contact the infected horse had with other animals.

Testing and monitoring will then be undertaken over the next month. While under quarantine, restrictions will apply to moving horses and horse materials on and off the infected property.

Hendra virus vaccine

The Queensland Government advises that a Hendra virus vaccine for horses produced by commercial manufacturer was released on 1 November 2012.

This vaccine has been released under special conditions and only veterinarians who have completed an online training module managed by the manufacturer will be accredited to administer the vaccine.

Visit the health for horses website for more information on the vaccine or talk to your veterinarian.