The New South Wales, Australia, Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is urging horse owners to remain vigilant, following confirmation of Hendra virus infection in an unvaccinated horse near Lismore.

Christine Middlemiss, BVMS, MRCVS, the NSW Chief Veterinary Officer, said Local Land Services has placed the affected property under movement restrictions.

“This is the first case of Hendra virus confirmed in NSW this year,” Middlemiss said. “Samples from the horse were sent by a private veterinarian for laboratory analysis at DPI’s Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute (EMAI) and results from testing at EMAI confirmed the Hendra virus last night (July 9).

“The 11-year-old gelding was euthanized near Lismore last night by the Local Land Services district veterinarian,” she added. “The horse was noticed to be lethargic on Thursday, July 6. On Friday, July 7 the horse was not eating and was wobbly on its feet

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