Extra vigilance is being urged among horse owners in Logan and the Scenic Rim following a recent “unusual” Hendra virus case.
Hoof N Paws Vet veterinarian Rebecca Clej said the case near Casino, north eastern New South Wales, was “worrying” as the horse’s symptoms differed to what was usually seen.
The animal initially tested negative for the Hendra virus after losing weight for two weeks and presenting with a sore mouth.
It reacted well to medication and started recuperating, until it deteriorated rapidly a week later and died.
“Un-vaccinated horses contract the virus by coming into contact with an infected flying fox or ingesting food or water which has been contaminated by a sick flying fox,” Ms Clej said.
“It’s an incredibly deadly disease, which can be passed on to humans and that is why it is so important to vaccinate your animal, and keep an eye on how your horse is acting and feeling.”
Typically, signs displayed by an animal infected by the Hendra virus include laboured breathing, frothy and or blood stained nasal discharge, neurological changes – loss of vision, tilting of the head, abnormal muscle twitching, weakness and a loss of balance – colic symptoms, loss of appetite, depression and an increased respiratory rate.
According to information provided on the Queensland Government website, more than 60 horses across the state have been infected with the Hendra virus since it was first identified in 1994.
Seven people have also been confirmed to have contracted the deadly disease.
Four of those people died as a result of contracting the virus – the most recent human death occurred in 2009.
“It’s a really vicious and horrible disease,” Ms Clej said.
“We see and vaccinate an average of about 20 horses a week, which really fluctuates depending on the time of year.
“Some people seem to think vaccinating their animal can be fairly expensive; but when you weigh up the price to prevent your horse from contracting the disease, the vaccination is worth every cent.”
The Veresdale-based veterinarian said owners are required to vaccinate their horse three to six weeks after the initial injection, and then again six months after the second booster shot.
“The price to vaccinate against the Hendra virus can vary from clinic to clinic, but as I always tell my clients, the vaccination roughly costs the same amount as what it would cost to buy your horse new shoes,” Ms Clej said.
“After the first year of vaccinations, it becomes a yearly injection; which is ultimately a small price to pay to keep your horse, and yourself, safe.”
For more information on vaccinations to prevent your horse from contracting the Hendra virus, contact your nearest equine veterinary clinic.
