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New Hendra Virus Case Confirmed in North Queensland

Published on Friday, February 22, 2013 in General

Biosecurity Queensland is managing a new Hendra virus case in the Tablelands area after a positive test result was received late last night. 

Queensland Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Rick Symons said one horse had died on the property after becoming unwell over the weekend.

“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 these other animals,” Dr Symons said.

“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.”

An initial assessment from Queensland Health's Public Health Unit in Cairns has identified four people who had contact with the infected horse.

Public health staff are now interviewing these people to determine whether any testing or treatment is required. All four people are thought to have had a low level of exposure to the infected horse.

Queensland’s Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young reassured the community that transmission of the virus required close contact with body fluids of the sick horse.

"There is no evidence the virus can be passed directly from flying foxes to humans, from the environment to humans, from humans to horses, or can be transmitted by airborne droplets," Dr Young said.

"Anyone who is concerned should contact 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84).

"We stand ready to provide any assistance, counselling, information, testing or treatment that may be required."

Dr Symons said this was the second case of Hendra virus in Queensland this year.

"Even though the majority of cases tend to occur in the cooler months between July and September, we have consistently said that Hendra virus infection can occur throughout the year,” he said.

“It is therefore important for horse owners to take steps to protect themselves and their animals year round.

"A Hendra virus vaccine for horses is also now available and it is recommended that horse owners discuss with their veterinarian whether vaccinating their horses is appropriate."


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