In a statement published 15 December, Northern Territory Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) Acting Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Sue Fitzpatrick, said the detection was not unexpected, as Little Red and Black Flying Fox bats are the natural host of the virus and over 20% of bats have been exposed to the virus in the NT.
“Hendra virus is a known viral infection that can affect horses, and in rare cases can spread from horses to people,” Dr Fitzpatrick said.
“This detection in a bat does not change the current level of risk to horses, pets or the community. It simply confirms the virus is present in the NT’s bat population, as it is in other parts of northern Australia. Further surveillance and sampling is now underway.”
Dr Fitzpatrick said horse owners can continue to manage risk through established and effective measures. Vaccination, particularly in areas with large bat populations, is recommended.
“Everyone working with or around horses should continue practising good biosecurity and personal hygiene, even if horses are vaccinated. If a horse becomes unwell, contact your local veterinarian straight away.”
