Hendra virus infection was first recognised in 1994 in Queensland, when it caused an outbreak of an acute, fatal respiratory disease that killed 14 horses. Sporadic cases have since occurred in Queensland and in northern NSW. Clinical signs can include high temperature, colic, respiratory symptoms and nervous signs.

The disease appears to spread from flying foxes (fruit bats) to horses, especially during the fruit bat breeding season (spring to early summer). Transmission from horse to horse does sometimes occur, probably through direct contact with the respiratory secretions of an infected animal.

Transmission from infected horses to humans also occasionally occurs, and is a very serious concern - the disease has caused several human fatalities in Queensland.

NOTE: This section will be constantly updated as further news and information is received

Further information on Hendra virus

• Hendra virus vaccine information for horse owners

• New bat virus could hold key to Hendra virus (3 August 2012)

• Current situation in New South Wales

• Important Notice To Trainers Concerning Hendra Virus Infection

• Hendra virus Facts and Why it’s Different to Equine Influenza (EI)

• Hendra virus – Frequently Asked Questions

• Racing NSW - Important Notice to Trainers Concerning Hendra virus Infection

• NSW Health - Hendra virus factsheet