“Unvaccinated Horse Dies of Hendra Virus in NSW, Human Exposure Investigated”

The article discusses the detection of the Hendra virus in a horse in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. The virus, which is often fatal in humans, is transmitted through contact with horse body fluids. The 24-year-old unvaccinated horse showed symptoms such as depression, uncoordinated movements, nasal discharge, and high temperatures, prompting the attending vet to collect samples for testing.

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) confirmed the virus’s presence in the horse after testing the samples. Authorities are working with the private vet to conduct a risk assessment on the property. State health officials are also assessing the risk for anyone who had contact with the infected horse.

Hendra virus infection is a notifiable disease in NSW, and biosecurity laws will be enforced to control the movement of animals and people on and off the property for at least 21 days. This is the first confirmed detection of the Hendra virus in NSW since October 2021. Previously, all human deaths from the virus in Australia occurred in Queensland, where it was first identified in 1994.

The virus is believed to be transmitted from bats to horses through contaminated food. The DPI chief veterinary officer, Dr. Jo Coombe, emphasized the importance of horse vaccination and advised horse owners to keep their animals away from flowering and fruiting trees that attract bats.

Early signs of Hendra virus infection in horses are non-specific, making it crucial for owners to remain vigilant and isolate any unwell horses from people and other animals. If a horse shows symptoms, owners should immediately contact a private veterinarian.

The detection of the Hendra virus highlights the ongoing need for vigilance in preventing the transmission of zoonotic diseases between animals and humans. Vaccination and proper biosecurity measures play a crucial role in protecting both animal and human health..