Victoria’s chief veterinary officer Graeme Cooke said the new genotype had recently been detected in a horse near Newcastle in NSW — the most southern detection of Hendra virus in a horse to date.
This follows a detection earlier this year, in a historic sample from a Queensland horse. The virus was also detected in 11 historical flying fox (fruit bat) archived samples.
“The flying fox is the natural host for Hendra virus but not known to transmit Hendra virus to humans,” Dr Cooke said.
The recently identified genotype displays similar characteristics to the already known Hendra virus, and researchers at Australia’s national science agency CSIRO said they expected the Hendra vaccine for horses should also be effective against the new virus type.
“This discovery serves as a timely reminder for horse owners to be vigilant about biosecurity on their properties,” Dr Cooke said.
“People can be infected with Hendra virus through contact with infected horses and vaccination is an effective way to prevent infection in horses.
“Horse owners should always adopt caution when a horse is unwell and report any signs of illness early.
“Avoid contact with a sick horse that is showing clinical signs when Hendra virus is a possible diagnosis. Strict infection control measures should be implemented under veterinary supervision.”
Flying foxes are a protected species and play an important role in pollinating native trees and spreading seeds. Biosecurity measures will help to minimise the risk of Hendra virus transmission, while protecting the flying foxes.
Horse owners can take steps to protect their animals from Hendra virus, including:
- Moving feed and water away from trees where bats may roost.
- Discussing Hendra vaccination options with their vet.
- Early isolation of a sick horse while waiting veterinary attention.
- Good hygiene and cleaning practices.
- Isolating new horses to their property, especially if they have travelled or co-mingled at events with horses from areas where Hendra cases have been previously detected (NSW or Queensland).
Symptoms include frothy nasal mucus, high temperature, rapid heart rate, muscle weakness and rapid deterioration.
Horse owners and veterinarians are reminded to remain vigilant for diseases such as Hendra virus and should report any unusual illness to the Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888.
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