6 days ago
Horse owners on alert after strain of equine herpesvirus type 1 found in Queensland
A rare neurological form of a common horse virus that can cause pregnant mares to abort foals has been detected in Queensland.
Biosecurity Queensland confirmed equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) was found in Townsville and Toowoomba.
Exact locations have not been disclosed, but authorities said one horse in the Townsville area showed neurological symptoms, while "a small number" of horses around Toowoomba had aborted foals.
There is no risk to human health.
Australian Veterinary Association president Gemma Chuck said EHV-1 was highly contagious and endemic across Australia, but the northern case was significant.
"The neurological form is seen much more rarely [and] overseas, there have been deaths in horses."
The virus usually causes mild respiratory illness or abortion in pregnant mares, but the neurological symptoms can include incoordination, hind-leg weakness, and difficulty standing, urinating or defecating.
Dr Chuck said symptoms could resemble signs of Hendra virus, which could be fatal to horses and humans.
"Just by looking at a horse with neurological signs, you're not going to know which one it is," she said.
"This really shows the critical role that veterinarians have in protecting public health."
A Queensland Department of Primary Industries spokesperson said tracing and risk assessments were complete and "the risk of this incident becoming a widespread outbreak remains low."
Unlike Hendra virus, EHV-1 poses no risk to humans and spreads only between horses and donkeys.
It is transmitted through direct contact, inhalation of respiratory droplets, or contaminated equipment.
Horse owners are being urged to review their biosecurity protocols, limit horse movements, isolate sick animals, disinfect gear, and speak with veterinarians about vaccination.
With the winter racing season, campdrafting, and major rodeos underway, Dr Chuck warned against moving unwell horses.
"[In] overseas scenarios … there's been a lot of event cancellation when these things have got out of control," she said.
"If your horse isn't well, then absolutely 100 per cent, it needs to stay at home."
Horse owners are required by law to report suspected cases to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or the Emergency Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
