Hendra Virus Policy Statement
Hendra Virus Policy Statement at Sunshine Coast Equine Hospital
Hendra virus infection is a fatal disease in both horses and humans. Clinical signs in horses can be broad and non-specific, ranging from acute neurological disease to fever, respiratory disease, colic, lethargy, and inappetence. Though exposure to flying foxes occurs in most cases, not all documented cases have had a clear link to flying foxes. Importantly, Hendra virus is a zoonotic disease, meaning infected horses can transmit the virus to humans. Human infection, whilst rare, has resulted in fatalities. Horses can shed the virus prior to showing clinical signs.
At Sunshine Coast Equine Hospital, the safety of people including horse owners, carers, clients, support staff, nurses and veterinarians is our highest priority. For this reason, we support and recommend Hendra virus vaccination as the most effective measure currently available to reduce the risk of infection in horses and humans.
We also recognise that horse owners have the right to make informed decisions regarding vaccination. Accordingly, we are able to provide veterinary care to both vaccinated and unvaccinated horses, with appropriate risk assessment and risk management measures in place.
Case Management
A Hendra virus risk assessment will be performed for every horse, regardless of vaccination status. The examining veterinarian, in conjunction with senior veterinarians, will make the final decision regarding examination, treatment, or admission based on this assessment.
Vaccinated horses:
We will consult, perform procedures (including surgery), and provide treatment for both routine and emergency cases.
If a vaccinated horse is showing clinical signs where Hendra virus is considered a significant possibility, appropriate biosecurity measures will be implemented, which may include Hendra virus exclusion testing.
Unvaccinated horses:
If the horse is considered clinically healthy, we will consult, perform most procedures, and provide treatment.
Exceptions apply, including dental floating.
The final decision will be made by the examining veterinarian in conjunction with senior veterinarians following risk assessment.
If the horse is unwell and Hendra virus is included on the differential diagnosis list, acceptance will be considered on a case-by-case basis following discussion with the owner and a formal risk assessment.
If accepted, these horses will be admitted to our isolation unit, and Hendra virus exclusion testing will be performed.
In these circumstances, the treatments and procedures that can be safely provided could be limited until Hendra exclusion results return.
Hendra virus exclusion testing takes 1-4 days to return depending on the time and day of case admission.
Exploratory laparotomy (colic surgery) will not be performed on unvaccinated horses until SCEH has received a negative Hendra PCR test.
This policy is designed to balance the provision of veterinary care with our responsibility to protect people from a serious zoonotic disease. We are happy to discuss Hendra virus vaccination, risk assessment, and case management with clients at any time.