Hendra virus has a high human mortality rate

“In all cases to date the virus has been transferred to humans from bats via an intermediate equine host,” Dr Jeannette Young from Queensland Health, and co-authors, said.

“The most promising prospect for controlling HeV outbreaks in humans is the vaccine for horses that is expected to be marketed in 2013,” Dr Young said.

“Horses are thought to be infected by ingesting food or water contaminated by urine, saliva or birthing products of infected flying foxes.

“The virus amplifies within the horse, and humans who are exposed to a large amount of the secretions or blood from an infected horse can become infected.

“Laboratory studies show that horses may excrete virus for up to 72 hours before showing clinical signs.

“All seven humans infected with HeV to date had high levels of exposure to body fluids of infected horses, such as during unprotected autopsy or by direct contact with respiratory secretions or aerosols.

“Not all people with high-level exposure have contracted the disease or seroconverted.

“There is no evidence that prolonged close contact with flying foxes engenders a risk of HeV infection in humans.”

The Medical Journal of Australia is a publication of the Australian Medical Association.

The statements or opinions that are expressed in the MJA  reflect the views of the authors and do not represent the official policy of the AMA unless that is so stated.

CONTACT:          Ms Naomi Ford                                               0409 791 963

                        Media Manager, Queensland Health

                        On behalf of Dr Jeannette Young