A SECOND horse in the Macleay has died from the Hendra virus.
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The most recent fatality was at a property at Dondingalong on Tuesday. The property has been placed in quarantine.
Acting NSW Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Therese Wright said the 13-year-old quarterhorse had become dull and reluctant to move and was treated with a course of antibiotics.
“The horse’s condition deteriorated rapidly on Monday with neurological changes, aimless wandering, jaundice and fever and it was sampled by a private veterinarian,” Dr Wright said.
“The Hendra virus was confirmed today (Wednesday) by the state’s virology laboratory at the Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute.
“A second horse on the property will be vaccinated and closely monitored by a Livestock Health and Pest Authority (LHPA) veterinarian.
“The horse will be tested three times before the property is released from quarantine and tracing is underway to determine if any horses have left the property in recent weeks.”
The NSW Department of Primary Industries is still investigating but it is believed the horse was infected in the local area, although possibly not on the property where it died.
Hendra virus is known to be spread in the droppings and bodily fluids of common fruit bats.
It was first discovered in Queensland in 1994 when an outbreak of the virus killed a horse trainer and 14 horses in his care.
The Macleay Hendra cases represent the southern most outbreak of the virus. Two other horses have died in the Macksville region this year.
Vets in the Macleay are now flat out vaccinating horses.
Andrew Bennett from Macleay Valley Veterinary Services said he thought the tipping point for owners in the Macleay had been reached.
Concern for the safety of children and family members who are exposed to unvaccinated horses was one of the main factors in the increase of people seeking vaccinations.
Heather Rieck at Crescent Head Veterinary Clinic is also busy vaccinating horses this week.
Horses can be contagious to humans and other animals such as dogs for 48 hours before the horses show any symptoms of being ill.
Once exposed, it can take 21 days before a person is given the all clear from possible infection.
Mr Bennett is urging organisers of horse events and equestrian sports clubs to seriously consider making vaccination for competition animals compulsory.
The cost of the vaccine and the inconvenience are reasons that have been given for not vaccinating.
“I had one owner contact me about vaccinating his horses who was more concerned for the safety of his children than he was about his animals,” Mr Bennett said.
“Although the risk of transmission to humans is low it is still a real possibility.
“The peace of mind having their horses vaccinated gives the owners is worth infinitely more than the cost of the treatment.”
Mr Bennett said that despite what horse enthusiasts might read on social media the vaccine is 100 per cent safe and effective.
“It doesn’t cause mercury poisoning, which is something I have heard, and the only horses that can’t be vaccinated with absolute security are pregnant mares,” he said.
“My dream would be to have every horse in the Macleay vaccinated.
“I know people are a bit sceptical when a vet pushes a particular treatment but I really couldn’t care less where the owner gets their horse vaccinated, please just get it done.”