Ninth Qld Horse Dead from Hendra After Initially Testing Negative

A horse that died in the Logan area last month has been confirmed as having been infected with Hendra virus after a series of tests undertaken by the Australian Animal Health Laboratory (AAHL) in Geelong.

The horse died on 28 June at a property in the Logan Area. There were no other horses on the property. 

Initial test results from samples taken from the horse were negative for Hendra virus. Samples were then sent to AAHL for further testing for a cause of death.

AAHL conducted a series of further tests and found that the horse had antibodies to Hendra virus.

Further testing showed the horse had extremely low levels of Hendra virus in its blood when it was sampled. This, together with the level of antibodies, suggests that the horse may have had a previous Hendra virus infection and developed some antibodies.

Biosecurity Queensland will not be quarantining the property. However, it has now been added to the list of current cases in Queensland, taking the total to seven this year - nine horses have died.

The number of horses currently being monitored on quarantined properties remains unchanged at 83.

If you suspect Hendra virus, please contact Biosecurity Queensland immediately on 13 25 23 or the Emergency Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888.

Quick Links

• Read the Brisbane Times Report about questions this latest death has raised - the fact Hendra can lay dormant and then cause a relapse!
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• www.dpi.qld.gov.au