Biosecurity Queensland is managing a new case of hendra virus near Mackay, Queensland, Australia, after a positive test result was received last night (June 27).

Queensland Chief Veterinary Officer Rick Symons, BVSc, MBA, PhD, said the property manager contacted a veterinarian after discovering the horse was gravely ill on Tuesday (June 26). After the veterinarian took samples, the horse was euthanized.

"There are a number of other animals including horses on the property and on adjoining properties," Symons said. "Tracing is a priority to determine what contact the infected horse had with other animals on all properties.

"Biosecurity Queensland officers are on the property this morning and are in the process of quarantining," he continued. "Restrictions will apply to moving horses and horse materials on and off the infected property, and the property will be quarantined for at least one month