Horse Dies of Hendra Virus Near Newcastle

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. 

Horse Owners to Continue as Usual

BY ALICE PEART

Horse owners in the Upper Hunter have been given the all-clear to continue as usual after a confirmed case of the deadly Hendra virus last week on a property near Scone.

The case was reported after rapid on-set of symptoms in an unvaccinated mare on Friday, June 7 when the owners called the animal diseases hotline.

It is the furthest south the virus has been detected in the state but officials have said there is no further cause for alarm.

The infected horse was euthanised and the remaining horses on the property are being closely monitored by the District Vet.

Apart from the property involved in the case there are no transport restrictions and owners are being told planned events should continue as usual, with the importance of good biosecurity compliance being stressed.

For more information on the virus visit the DPI site.