Horse Hendra Vaccination

Hendra Virus Vaccination and Treatment for Horses in Brisbane, Ipswich and Lockyer Valley

Hendra virus is the deadly disease, spread by the bodily fluids excreted by fruit bats.

The virus is transmitted from fruit bat to horse via feed and water contaminated with fruit bat urine, faeces or other bodily fluids. It is then spread from horse to horse and horse to human by direct contact with bodily fluids.

Statistically, Hendra virus causes death in 50% of human cases and 100% of horse cases, as any infected horse is required to be humanely euthanised. Vaccination is the only way to prevent Hendra virus and protect you, your horse, your family and anyone else who comes into contact with horses.

Why do I need to vaccinate against Hendra?

Due to the severity of Hendra virus, any horse infected by Hendra virus must be humanely euthanised. Vaccination is the only way to provide your horse with immunity against Hendra virus.

How often do I need to vaccinate against Hendra?

To provide maximum protection against Hendra virus, your horse should receive an annual booster.

However, if your horse is unvaccinated against Hendra virus, you should follow the below schedule to give them the full benefits of immunity:

1. First dose – Equivac HeV

3-6 WEEK INTERVAL

2. Second dose – Equivac HeV

6 MONTH INTERVAL

3. Third dose – Equivac HeV

12 MONTH INTERVAL

4. Annual booster – Equivac HeV

My horse is housed in a low risk area. Do I still need to vaccinate?

 A recent study, conducted by XXXX, has detected Hendra virus in urine samples collected from fruit bats in geographical areas where Hendra outbreaks have not yet occurred. Wherever fruit bats are present, there is risk of contamination. Hendra vaccination is the only way to protect you, your family and your horse against this deadly disease.

My Next Steps

If your horse is due for vaccination or you’re unsure about its vaccination status, call us today on (07) 5411 4554 to speak with a qualified veterinarian.