MEDIA RELEASE The Australian Veterinary Association

04 May 2011

Horse owners warned to prepare for Hendra season

The Australian Veterinary Association is warning horse owners to take precautions against Hendra virus as the season for infections approaches. “There are still lots of gaps in our knowledge about how Hendra virus spreads, and we don’t know what effect the recent record wet weather will have,” said Dr Barry Smyth, President of the Australian Veterinary Association. “Anyone working with horses should be on the lookout and immediately report any suspected cases of Hendra virus infection over the coming months,” he said. Common signs to look out for include respiratory distress, frothy nasal discharge, elevated body temperature (above 40°C), and elevated heart rate. However, it is important to realise there are no specific signs of infection.

“So far cases of Hendra infection have been restricted to Queensland and New South Wales, but there is potential for the disease wherever there are flying foxes,” said Dr Smyth. “Protective measures include placing feed and water under cover where possible, not placing feed and water under trees when flying foxes are in the area, not using feed that might attract flying foxes (such as fruit and vegetables), and where possible removing horses from fields where flying foxes are active, and fencing off trees where flying foxes roost,” said Dr Smyth The few cases of human Hendra virus infection have been the result of very close contact with horses infected with the virus. Body fluids or secretions from infected animals are likely to contain the virus. “The risk can be greatly reduced by adopting good hygiene practices as a matter of routine and taking increased precautions around any sick horse,” said Dr Smyth. “It is also important to wash your hands with soap and water regularly before, during and after handling horses and minimise contact with your horse if it is unwell,” he said.

Since 1994, Hendra virus has been confirmed in 40 horses and seven humans. In these cases all horses either died or were destroyed and four of the people died.

Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice health problems in your horses or suspect they may be infected with Hendra virus.

Notes to Editors: There will be an update on Hendra virus on 17 May at the forthcoming

Australian Veterinary Association Annual Conference in Adelaide.

For further information and requests for interviews contact: Jacob O’Shaughnessy, Media Relations Manager Ph: 02 9431 5062 or 0439 628 898

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) is the national professional association of veterinary surgeons in Australia. Founded in 1921, the AVA today represents 5000 members working in all areas of animal science, health and welfare.