BY OLIVIA DILLON
A horse has reportedly died from Hendra virus at a property near Newcastle.
Authorities have confirmed the unvaccinated 24-year-old horse died of the virus after it was detected late last night.
NSW DPI Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Jo Coombe said "the horse was depressed, uncoordinated, had a nasal discharge and high temperatures."
A private vet is reportedly working to undertake a risk assessment of the property but says at this stage no other animals or residents are showing signs of poor health.
It's the first time Hendra virus has been detected in NSW since October 2021.
Owners in the region are being encouraged to vaccinated their horses, and keep them away from flowering or fruiting trees which attract bats.
