NSW Department of Primary Industries

Hendra virus

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Hendra virus has been confirmed in a 24-year-old unvaccinated horse on a property near Newcastle, north of Sydney. This is the first case of Hendra virus in a horse in NSW since October 2021 and the second case in the Newcastle area.

There have been no human deaths from Hendra virus in NSW.

Horse owners are reminded that vaccination of horses is the most effective way to help manage Hendra virus disease with the vaccine reported to provide immunity against both the variant strain as well as the normal Hendra virus strain. In addition, horse owners are strongly recommended to manage any potential horse-bat interactions on their property.

Immediately report any unusual signs of disease or sudden death in your animals to your local veterinarian or the EAD Hotline on 1800 675 888.

General information on Hendra virus

Information for vets

Information for event organisers

Guidelines for the management of suspect Hendra cases at horse events
Horse Events: Biosecurity guidelines for organisers and competitors
Horse Venue Biosecurity Workbook (www.farmbiosecurity.com.au)

Information for those who own or handle horses

Hendra virus vaccine information for horse owners
Qld Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry: Hendra virus (www.daf.qld.gov.au)

Response documents

Policy, procedures and various forms relating to the Hendra virus response.

Spotlight

Hendra virus confirmed in unvaccinated horse near Newcastle: Read the media release.
Report suspect cases: Hendra virus is listed as prohibited matter under schedule 2 of the Biosecurity Act 2015. If you suspect your horse has Hendra virus keep everyone away from the horse and call your private veterinarian immediately. If a private vet unavailable, and the illness is progressing rapidly, call the Animal Biosecurity Emergency Hotline on 1800 675 888.