Hendra virus horse carcass disposal

Summary

Hendra Virus occurs naturally in flying foxes in Australia. Occasionally unvaccinated horses get infected with Hendra virus as a result of feed or water contamination by flying foxes.

Around 100 horses have died from the infection over the past 20 years, mostly along the east coast from the mid north coast of NSW north to Cape York.

But Hendra virus is also a dangerous human health hazard. Four people have died from contact with infected horses since the disease was first discovered in 1994.

An effective vaccine to protect horses against Hendra virus infection is available; horses need regular boosters to maintain protection.

This primefact includes topics:

  • What is Hendra virus
  • Risk from an unvaccinated sick or dead horse
  • How long does it take to get test results
  • Disposal options for a suspect carcass
  • What if i need to dispose of the carcass before the results are back?
  • Cleaning and disinfection



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Primefact 1614 First Edition

Published: 21 Dec 2017