Warning as virus hits

HORSE owners are being urged to remain vigilant after an unvaccinated horse infected with the Hendra virus was euthanised in northern NSW.

The infected 11-year-old gelding, from a property near Lismore, is the first confirmed case of the virus in NSW this year, Department of Primary Industries chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss said.

“Vaccination remains the most effective way of reducing the risk of Hendra virus infection in horses, but good biosecurity and personal hygiene measures should always be practised in conjunction with it,” Dr Middlemiss said.