Cairns Hendra Incident

Biosecurity Queensland is working with the operators of a Cairns equestrian centre to manage the latest case of Hendra virus infection. The centre has been quarantined.

Laboratory testing has confirmed that a horse that died on the property yesterday morning was infected with the virus. Queensland Chief Veterinarian Dr Rick Symons said Biosecurity Queensland officers had spent the day on the property assessing how many other horses may have been exposed. "There have been quite a few other horses moving on and off the site in recent weeks," he said. "We are conducting tracing of these horses and speaking to the owners." Queensland's Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young said to date, public health experts had identified five (5) people who had contact with the infected horse near Cairns. "Public health staff have conducted thorough assessments today and all contacts have had a low level of exposure to the sick horse," Dr Young said. "We acknowledge that these are difficult circumstances for these people. Our public health staff will continue to consult with them to ensure they are provided with all the information and support they require. "I can also confirm that the woman assessed as having a high level of exposure to a horse infected with Hendra virus near Rockhampton, remains in a stable condition. "The patient does not have any symptoms of Hendra virus infection. "The patient does not wish any further information be released at this time." This is the sixth Hendra virus incident in Queensland this year. One property at Rockhampton and two properties near Mackay remain under quarantine after recent confirmed cases of Hendra virus infection. The latest ‘Guidelines for veterinarians handling potential Hendra virus infections in horses’ has been updated and is readily available for veterinarians at www.biosecurity.qld.gov.au For more information on Hendra virus contact Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or visit www.biosecurity.qld.gov.au For more information on Hendra virus contact Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or visit www.biosecurity.qld.gov.au