Biosecurity Queensland is managing the first equine hendra virus case of 2014 after test results received late last night confirmed a horse in the Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia, area was positive for the disease.

Queensland's Chief Veterinary Officer Rick Symons, BVSc, MBA, PhD, said in a statement that a private veterinarian euthanized the horse Monday (March 17) after it become unwell over the weekend.

"There is one other horse on the property," Symons said. "Tracing and risk assessments are being undertaken on any animals that may have had contact with the infected horse to work out if further testing needs to be done. The property has been quarantined which means restrictions apply to moving horses and horse materials on and off the property. The quarantine will be in place for at least one month.

"The timing of this case highlights the need for horse owners to remain vigilant in taking steps to reduce the risk of infection as hendra virus can occur year round,” he continued. "Vaccination is the single most effective way of reducing the risk of hendra virus infection in horses. It is recommended that horse owners speak to their veterinarian about vaccinating their horses