Hendra virus case confirmed in South East QLD

7 July - update

Visit here for the latest update from QLD Department of Primary Industries: https://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/news-media/news/hendra-virus-alert 

6 July

Biosecurity Queensland has confirmed a case of Hendra virus in an unvaccinated horse in south-east Queensland – the first confirmed case since 2022.

Hendra virus confirmed in South East Queensland

The infected horse deteriorated rapidly and died. Queensland authorities are working with the property owner, Queensland Health, and other contacts to manage risk and trace potential exposures.

Vaccination remains the most effective protection against Hendra virus for both horses and humans.

As always, AVA’s priority is your safety and ensuring you have clear, timely information and professional support.

What this means

If you work with horses, please prioritise your own safety and wellbeing and continue to take all necessary precautions, including:

• Consider a horse’s vaccination status as part of your risk assessment prior to examination
• Review your individual and clinic Hendra virus management protocols
• Assume all sick horses may be infectious
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)

Further information

We will keep members updated with any additional news. Resources for veterinarians include:

• Two comprehensive EVA Videos on PPE for veterinarians are available here
• AVA Hendra virus resources (EVA member login): https://www.ava.com.au/member-services/my-ava-groups/equine/resources/hendra-virus/ 
• Queensland DPI media release: https://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/news-media/news/hendra-virus-south-east-queensland
• AVA media release: https://www.ava.com.au/media-centre/media-releases/veterinarians-urge-vigilance-and-vaccination-following-hendra-virus-case-in-queensland/
• AVA Hendra virus policy: https://www.ava.com.au/policy-advocacy/policies/horse-health-and-welfare/hendra-virus/

Dr Laura Hardefeldt, President of Equine Veterinarians Australia (EVA), said:

“We commend the referral veterinarian for their swift and professional response, which undoubtedly helped contain the risk to people and other animals. This case is a stark reminder that Hendra virus remains a real and present threat. Vaccination is the best defence we have to protect horses, veterinarians, and the broader community.”

Need support?

If this event raises concerns for you or your team, please reach out. The AVA Member Services team and the EVA committee and are here to support you. AVA Member Services can be reached on 1300 137 309.  

Dr Laura Hardefeldt
President, Equine Veterinarians Australia

Dr Gemma Chuck
President, Australian Veterinary Association