07/07/2025
*** A timely reminder of the importance of being alert and keeping up to date with your horse's Hendra vaccination.***
Hendra virus (HeV) is a serious and potentially fatal disease that primarily affects horses, and it can be transmitted to humans and other animals. Horses typically develop symptoms within 1 to 3 weeks after exposure to the virus.
Here are the common symptoms of Hendra virus infection in horses:
1. Fever
2. Respiratory Issues
3. Neurological Symptoms
4. Depression and Lethargy
5. Sudden Death
6. Other Possible Symptoms such as colic or diarrhoea
If a horse shows any of these symptoms, it is crucial to contact a veterinarian immediately. Hendra virus is a serious condition with a high fatality rate, both in horses and humans, so swift action is necessary to contain and manage the disease.
Hendra Virus Vaccination Schedule for Horses:
1. Initial Vaccination (Primary Course)
* First dose: The initial vaccination consists of a single dose of the Equivac HeV vaccine.
* Second dose: A second dose is administered 3 to 6 weeks after the first dose. This second dose helps to boost the immune response and provide full protection.
2. Booster Doses (Ongoing Maintenance)
* After the initial two-dose series, horses need to receive annual booster shots to maintain immunity. The booster should be administered 12 months after the second dose of the primary course, and then annually thereafter.
Vaccinations are recommended for horses over 4 months. The vaccine is highly effective, but no vaccine offers 100% protection. However, vaccinated horses are much less likely to develop severe disease or die from Hendra virus compared to unvaccinated horses. Only accredited veterinarians can give the vaccination.
MEDIA RELEASE | Veterinarians urge vigilance and vaccination following Hendra virus case in Queensland
Equine Veterinarians Australia (EVA), a special interest group of the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA), has reinforced the importance of vaccination and biosecurity after Biosecurity Queensland today confirmed a case of Hendra virus in an unvaccinated horse in south-east Queensland.
Dr Laura Hardefeldt, EVA President, expressed strong support for the veterinarian who managed the case and reiterated the critical role of horse owners in preventing the spread of this deadly disease.
“We commend the referral veterinarian for their swift and professional response, which undoubtedly helped contain the risk to people and other animals,” said Dr Hardefeldt.
“This case is a stark reminder that Hendra virus remains a real and present threat. Vaccination is the best defence we have to protect horses, veterinarians, and the broader community.”
Read more: https://www.ava.com.au/media-centre/media-releases/veterinarians-urge-vigilance-and-vaccination-following-hendra-virus-case-in-queensland/
QLD DPI media release: https://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/news-media/news/hendra-virus-south-east-queensland
QLD Government Hendra virus information: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/condition/infections-and-parasites/viral-infections/hendra-virus-infection