A three-year study investigating the impact of human behavior on the spread of the hendra virus was discussed at the Australian Veterinary Association’s conference May 29.

Dr. Kate Sawford said that the goal of the so-called "HHALTER project" is to look at how humans respond to the threat of hendra virus, and what can be done to reduce the chance of transmission from flying foxes to horses and then to humans.

“A large number of horse owners are being asked to complete five surveys conducted at six-month intervals," she said. "The surveys investigate the factors influencing people’s awareness about the risks from hendra virus and their use of prevention strategies.

“Although government agencies have been communicating about hendra virus for a number of years, more needs to be done, she continued. “The combination of a high human death rate, no cure, and no human vaccine means that hendra virus is a frightening disease. An outbreak of hendra virus on a property cannot only impact people’s health, but also be financially, professionally, emotionally, and psychologically damaging