Horses and People Magazine

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) applauds the actions of the veterinary hospital at the centre of an outbreak of the Hendra virus in Brisbane.

Four horses have now been confirmed with Hendra infection by the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F), and the vets at the clinic are working closely with Biosecurity Queensland to determine how the outbreak occurred.

“The clinic has been following all appropriate precautions from the outset and even placed itself into voluntary quarantine after they notified DPI&F that they suspected an unusual disease outbreak,” said Dr James Gilkerson, President of Equine Veterinarians Australia, a special interest group of the AVA.

“Four horses have since tested positive to the virus and the clinic has now initiated comprehensive and systematic disinfection procedures to ensure containment.

“This is not like the situation with equine influenza virus which had a greater capacity to spread between horses. The Hendra virus is not so contagious.

Outbreaks of Hendra virus disease in horses are very uncommon, but the horse owning public and the veterinary profession need to be vigilant.

“Symptoms are neurological rather than respiratory and affect the horse’s balance and gait.

“While the disease is of concern because of its ability to be transmitted to humans, it is not highly contagious. The public health risk is generally limited to those who have exposure to the horse’s body fluids,” Dr Gilkerson said.

“The detection of the Hendra virus highlights the need for stringent biosecurity procedures when handling animals with illnesses, and AVA applauds the swift action of the vets involved in this outbreak.”

It is believed that fruit bats are the natural host of the Hendra virus and outbreaks have been associated with the birthing season of these bats.

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) is the national professional association of veterinary surgeons in Australia. Founded in 1921, the AVA today represents 5000 members. AVA's mission is to serve the interests of members and to act and speak with a single voice on matters relating to the health and welfare of animals.