Horse in Cairns Positive for Hendra Virus

Biosecurity Queensland is managing a case of Hendra virus infection near Cairns after test results were confirmed this afternoon from a deceased horse came back positive for the virus.

Chief Biosecurity officer Jim Thompson said a private vet had attended the sick horse on Sunday and took samples - the horse died yesterday morning.

"Samples had been taken from the sick horse by the vet before the animal died", he said.

"Initial reports are that there are 37 other horses on the property - we are in the process of quarantining the property with Biosecurity Queensland officers already in contact with the owners."

"This property will be quarantined to restrict the movement of horses on and off."

"Tracing will be a priority to determine what contact the deceased horse had with other animals on the property."

"Queensland Health, key horse industry groups and the Australian Veterinary Association have been notified of this latest case."

Staff from Queensland Health's Cairns Public Health Unit are on the way to the property now to assess the situation and offer any testing or treatment to people that may be required.

At this stage it is not clear whether any human is at risk, however more will be known once staff are on site.

Queensland Health stands ready to provide any assistance, counselling, information, testing or treatment that may be required.

Once officers from Biosecurity Queensland and Queensland Health have been able to speak further with those people that treated the horse, a determination of whether anyone may have been exposed can be made.

For more information on Hendra virus contact Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or visit www.biosecurity.qld.gov.au

Quick Link

• DPI website
• Hendra Virus - The Facts