Hendra virus
Hendra virus was first discovered in 1994 from sick horses in the suburb of Hendra, Brisbane. Although originally classified as a morbillivirus (Equine morbillivirus), the virus has now been reclassified and named Hendra virus (HeV).
- Who carries the Hendra virus?
- Are flying foxes present in the Sunshine Coast region and why are they so important to our environment?
- Stay informed
Hendra virus is a disease which can be transmitted between animals and humans and can cause serious public health issues.
Fortunately, Hendra virus infection in humans is quite rare.
Fruit bats commonly known as flying foxes are believed to be the natural host for the Hendra virus and horses are thought to be infected by horse feed or water contaminated by the virus.
Are flying foxes present in the Sunshine Coast region and why are they so important to our environment?
Yes . There are three different types of flying fox species present in the Sunshine Coast region:
Grey-headed flying fox (Pteropus poliocephalus)
Little red flying fox (Pteropus scapulatus)
Black flying fox (Pteropus alecto)
Flying foxes are fruit and nectar feeders. They are important pollinators and seed dispersers of many plant species. In their travels, flying foxes disperse seeds in their droppings and transport pollen from tree to tree, fertilising flowers as they feed.
They play important roles in the reproduction, regeneration and dispersal of plants within rainforests, eucalypt forests, woodlands and wetlands. Eucalypts rely heavily on these pollinators, producing most of their nectar and pollen at night to coincide when flying foxes are active.
The Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries protects the health of horses through disease prevention and control and responsible animal welfare standards.
To stay informed of the latest information about the Hendra virus visit the Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries website and follow the links to the Hendra virus page (Animals > Horses > Hendra Virus).
The website includes:
- Current research and news;
- Community information including a guide on “Important information for horse owners” and;
- Updates for veterinarians.
If you suspect Hendra virus, please contact the Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries immediately on 13 25 23 or contact the Emergency Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888.
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