HENDRA CLAIMS ANOTHER HORSE
HENDRA CLAIMS ANOTHER HORSE
30 August 2011
Nationals Member for Lismore, Thomas George, today reinforced his concerns for local horse owners to take all the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the deadly Hendra virus. The Hendra virus has now killed six horses since June at properties in Wollongbar, Macksville, Ballina, Lismore and Mullumbimby.
“Recently, I raised the matter in Parliament as a Matter of Public Importance where the Minister for Primary Industries, Katrina Hodgkinson, made it clear that the NSW Department of Primary Industries is working around the clock to take swift and decisive action to prevent the spread of the Hendra virus,” Mr George said.
With this latest loss, I again remind horse owners to be vigilant to stop this deadly virus from spreading.”
Mr George said he wanted to remind all horse owners on the North Coast to take precautions to reduce the risk of their horses becoming infected with Hendra virus.
Horse owners can take a number of simple steps including:
- Remove horses from paddocks where fruiting or flowering trees have temporarily attracted flying foxes. If that’s not possible, tape off the area under the tree.
- Place feed and water containers under cover. Do not put feed and water under trees, especially trees with fruit or blossom.
- Do not use feed that could attract flying foxes, such as apples, carrots, or molasses.
If you suspect your horse has Hendra, keep both people and animals away from it and call your private veterinarian immediately.
Further information is available on NSW Department of Primary Industries’ website: www.agriculture.nsw.gov.au/info/hendra