Horses and People Magazine

Hendra Virus is a notifiable disease in Queensland. You must advise the DPI&F if you think you have a case of the disease on your property or at your veterinary clinic.

HeV infection of horses and humans has occurred as two forms:

Respiratory HeV

• Peracute or acute illness
• Frothy nasal discharge
• Facial oedema
• Body temperature > 40 0C
• Elevated heart rate (>90 beats/minute)

Neurological Hev (primarily seen in the latest cases – July 2008)

• Mild focal neurological signs, including muscle twitching
• Ataxia
• Head tilt, facial nerve paralysis
• Elevated body temperature
• Neurological signs may resolve

To report suspicion of HeV infection contact the DPI&F via :
• DPI&F Call Centre 13 25 23
• Disease watch Hotline 1800 675 888

Reduce the Risk – Biosecurity Considerations

Stringent biosecurity measures are necessary when dealing with horses known or suspected of having HeV infection, because of the important public health and workplace health and safety issues. Keeping horses away from flying foxes may prevent the spill-over of HeV from bats to horses.

HeV infection is a notifiable disease under Queensland Legislation.

Veterinarians should contact the DPI&F as soon as they suspect a case of HeV in horses or other animals. It is strongly recommended veterinarians seek advice from DPI&F in the investigation of suspect HeV cases.

Find out More

More information, including detailed guidelines for handling suspect HeV cases, is available from www.dpi.qld.gov.au or by calling 13 25 23.

Contact the Queensland Health Hotline on 13 Health (432584) if you have concerns about possible exposure of people to HeV.