Racing Queensland has re-iterated its encouragement for owners to vaccinate their horses against the Hendra virus after Queensland recorded its first equine case in three years.
An unvaccinated horse died in south-east Queensland last Friday. Racing Queensland confirmed the horse involved was not a racehorse but urged caution.
“Racing Queensland joins Biosecurity Queensland in encouraging owners to vaccinate their horses,” it said.
“Signs of Hendra virus infection can be non-specific in the early stages. As horses may become infectious before appearing unwell, it is important to routinely exercise good hygiene measures when interacting with horses.
“Anyone who is concerned about possible infection should contact their veterinarian immediately and avoid contact with the horse until Hendra virus exclusion results are obtained.”
Hendra virus is transmitted by flying foxes, but can be spread from horse to horse as well as to other animals, and in rare cases to humans.
Vic Rail, the trainer of champion Vo Rogue, died after being infected with Hendra virus in 1994.
