July 8, 2013
Biosecurity Queensland is managing a new Hendra virus incident near the Gold Coast hinterland after positive test results were received last Thursday night.
An unvaccinated horse was euthanased after becoming unwell on Thursday last week.
There are no other horses on the property but Biosecurity Queensland has quarantined it to address the risk of environmental contamination.
Tracing and risk assessments are being undertaken on any animals that have been on or off the property, as well as any neighbouring animals that may have had contact with the infected horse.
While under quarantine, restrictions will apply to moving horses and horse materials on and off the property.
Seven people were being assessed for exposure to the horse by Queensland Health.
Queensland Health will continue to contact trace to ensure no one else requires treatment.
This was the fourth case of Hendra virus in Queensland this year.
This incident is unrelated to the death of an unvaccinated horse in the Brisbane Valley in late June.
A Biosecurity Queensland spokesman said this second Hendra virus incident within two weeks highlights that most Hendra virus incidents occur in June to August, although they can occur at any time of the year.
“They are another reminder to horse owners that it is important for them to take steps year round to reduce the risk of Hendra virus infection,” he said.
“Vaccination is the single most effective way of reducing the risk of Hendra virus infection in horses. It is recommended that horse owners speak to their veterinarian about the option of vaccinating their horse against Hendra virus.”
A new Hendra case was also confirmed on the NSW mid-north coast at Macksville on Saturday.
