Hendra quarantine lifted at Rocky
A NERIMBERA property where there was a confirmed case of Hendra virus in late May has been released from quarantine.
The property and another at Ingham were quarantined last month after a horse died on each property after contracting the virus.
Queensland Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Rick Symons said Biosecurity Queensland had completed comprehensive sampling and assessments on all animals on these properties.
"The animals were assessed daily throughout the quarantine period and have shown no clinical signs of the virus."
Dr Symons said two horses on the Rockhampton property and a dog on the Ingham property which initially tested positive to Hendra virus genetic materials would also be released from quarantine after subsequent tests returned negative.
"All aspects of these cases were reviewed by an expert panel made up of an immunologist, senior veterinarians, and animal pathologists from across Australia.
"The experts agreed that the animals were not infected and did not pose any risk."
Dr Symons encouraged horse owners to remain vigilant in taking precautions to protect their animals.
"While Hendra virus infections can happen at any time of the year,the majority of cases tend to occur in the July to September period.
"Horse owners should not be complacent and as much as possible keep horses away from areas where there is flying fox activity."
A property near Mackay infected with Hendra virus last month and two adjoining properties remain under quarantine while testing continues.
