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Hendra virus
Important notice
As at 27 July 2011, the first reported case of a dog testing positive for the Hendra virus outside of laboratory conditions was announced.
It is recommended that people keep companion animals, such as dogs and cats, away from sick horses to reduce the risk of an infection.
Hendra virus is a notifiable disease
If you suspect the presence of this disease, you must report it to your local state veterinary authority or the national Emergency Disease Watch Hotline 1800 675 888.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, has a role in:
- managing market access issues that may arise (for example, export of horses, dogs and cats)
- analysing and sharing technical information with other government departments (such as the Department of Health and Ageing)
- making sure all states and territories are provided with situation updates by the affected states
- international notification through the World Organisation for Animal Health of significant developments
- membership of the Hendra virus task force established by the Premiers of Queensland and New South Wales
- support for research on developing a Hendra virus vaccine for horses and
- contributing to regulatory assessment for a Hendra virus vaccine for horses when an application for approval is received.
The Commonwealth would coordinate a national animal health response if one was initiated under the Emergency Animal Disease Response Agreement, but this is considered unlikely at this time.
The Commonwealth remains committed to supporting the states and territories in their efforts to combat the emergence of the virus and have joined with Queensland and NSW Governments in the Hendra virus taskforce and is committing funds to cross border Hendra virus research.
Media Release
- Gillard Government helping in the response to Hendra - 29 July 2011
For the latest news and information
Pest and disease outbreak website
- By State
03 Aug 2011