Hendra Virus
24/7 Emergency Hendra Virus Care for Horses in Brisbane, Ipswich and Lockyer Valley
A deadly virus, Hendra virus can kill horses and humans.
Since the first reported case in September 1994, cases of Hendra virus have increased dramatically, affecting horses and humans in Queensland and New South Wales.
While vaccination is not mandatory, your horse’s health is at risk if unvaccinated. Horses must be confirmed Hendra negative before receiving vital medical care, including surgery. This delay may reduce your horse’s chance of survival dramatically.
Causes
Hendra virus is carried by fruit bats and spread via contamination of a horse’s food or water by their bodily fluids, including urine, faeces and saliva. While the threat is mostly limited to Queensland and New South Wales, the mortality rate is high for both horses and humans if exposed to the virus.
Signs & Symptoms
The danger with Hendra virus is that clinical signs are similar to other common health problems, like colic. An unvaccinated horse may be refused treatment as per veterinary guidelines if any of the following symptoms are present.
The most common signs of Hendra virus are:
- Acute onset of illness
- Increased body temperature
- Weight shifting
- Depression
- Increased respiratory rate
- Nasal discharge
- Head tilting or circling
- Muscle twitching
- Urinary incontinence
Treatment Options
Sadly, if a horse is diagnosed with Hendra virus they must be humanely euthanised.
Your Next Steps
To find out more about protecting your horse against Hendra virus, click here. If you suspect Hendra virus, call us immediately on (07) 5411 4554 to speak with a qualified veterinarian. For after hours emergency assistance, call 0488 98 98 36.
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