The first case of Hendra virus in two years has been confirmed near Newcastle, where a 24 year old unvaccinated horse has died. 

While Hendra virus is usually found in flying foxes, the virus can be spread to horses, with known cases in humans and dogs who have had close contact with infected horses. 

Hendra virus infection in horses and humans has a high mortality rate. Approximately 80% of horses and 70% of people infected with Hendra virus die so the latest detection has triggered a statewide alert.

NSW DPI Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Jo Coombe said that no other animals are showing any signs of ill health since the virus was identified in the 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.  

“Public Health Officers from Hunter New England Health are also undertaking risk assessments of any people who have had contact with the infected horse,” she said. 

In accordance with the NSW Biosecurity Act, the movement of animals and people on and off the property will be controlled for at least 21 days since the infection was found.

Still, horse owners are urged to look out for symptoms in their horses, which include the rapid onset of illness, fever, increased heart rate and rapid deterioration in respiratory and nervous systems.

“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."

There is no human vaccine for Hendra virus.

Protection methods for humans include avoiding kissing the horse on the muzzle, covering cuts or abrasions before handling horses, and washing skin exposed to a horse’s bodily fluids immediately. 

The last detection of Hendra virus in NSW also occurred in Newcastle, in 2021.