Poole said the vaccine, introduced in 2012, remains the most effective way to manage the Hendra virus and is fully registered with the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority. | Photo: Alexandra Beckstett/The Horse

As winter arrives in Australia, the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) is reminding owners in that country to vaccinate horses to help prevent them from contracting the deadly Hendra virus.

Ben Poole, BVSc, MANZCVS, president of AVA’s equine group, said although Hendra virus—which has only been diagnosed in Australia thus far—can strike at any time, traditionally there are more cases during the cooler months.

“Hendra is a deadly virus,” he said. “For the benefit of horses and their owners, it is essential that horses located in, around or travelling to high-risk Hendra areas along the east coast, are vaccinated against Hendra virus