A 24 year old unvaccinated horse has died from Hendra virus at a property near Newcastle, NSW.
The detection of the virus was confirmed late on Tuesday 18 July 2023, through testing at NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute.
NSW DPI Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Jo Coombe said a private vet attended to the affected horse.
“The horse was depressed, uncoordinated, had a nasal discharge and high temperatures, so the attending vet collected samples for testing and notified the DPI Emergency Animal Disease Hotline,” Dr Coombe said.
“NSW DPI and Local Land Services are working with the private vet to undertake a risk assessment on the property. At this stage, no other animals are showing any signs of ill health.
“Public Health Officers from Hunter New England Health are also undertaking risk assessments of any people who have had contact with the infected horse.
“Hendra virus infection is notifiable in NSW under the NSW Biosecurity Act and an Individual Biosecurity Direction to control the movement of animals and people on and off the property is now in place for at least 21 days.”
This is the first confirmed detection of Hendra virus in NSW since October 2021. Previous to this case, there have been 25 horse deaths in NSW as a result of Hendra virus on 24 properties, since the first case in 2006.
There have been no human deaths from Hendra virus in NSW.
NSW DPI is urging horse owners to remain vigilant as the signs of Hendra virus infection are very non-specific early on.
“Vaccination of horses is the most effective way to help manage Hendra virus,” Dr Coombe said.
“Owners should also keep their horses away from flowering and fruiting trees that are attractive to bats.
“Do not place feed and water under trees and cover feed and water containers with a shelter so they cannot be contaminated from above.
“If your horse is unwell, keep people and animals away from the horse and call your private veterinarian immediately.”
Owners or private vets with concerns about a horse that may have Hendra virus, should call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
