Hendra Virus Vaccination for Horses

Hendra virus is a serious disease that can affect horses and people. at Vet Cross, the safety of our clients, their horses, and our veterinary team is extremely important. This page explains what Hendra virus is, why vaccination matters, and how it affects the veterinary services we can safely provide.

What is Hendra Virus?

Hendra virus is a disease carried by flying foxes (fruit bats). Horses can become infected through exposure to contaminated bodily fluids such as urine, saliva, or birthing fluids. While infection in horses is uncommon, the consequences can be severe.

Hendra virus can also be transmitted from horses to people. For this reason, strict safety protocols apply to the handling and treatment of horses where Hendra virus is a risk.

Why Vaccination is Important

Vaccination is the most effective way to protect horses against Hendra Virus and significantly reduces the risk of transmission to people.

Vaccinating your horse:

• Protects your horse from a potentially fatal disease
• Protects people who handle or care for horses
• Allows routine veterinary procedures to be performed safely
• Helps reduce workplace health and safety risks

Microchipping and Proof of Vaccination

All horses vaccinated against Hendra virus must be microchipped and recorded on the national Hendra vaccination registry.

Veterinarians confirm a horse's vaccination status by checking the registry using the horse's microchip number. For this reason:

• Proof of current Hendra vaccination is required
• A microchip number must be provided before certain procedures are performed

This system allows accurate, real-time confirmation and vaccination status and ensures the safety of everyone involved. 

Vet Cross Hendra Policy

A Vet Cross, we follow current biosecurity and workplace safety requirements.

We can attend and treat:

• Sick or injured horses that are not vaccinated
• Horses requiring medical assessment where Hendra virus is not suspected

These procedures carry a higher risk of exposure and can only be safely performed on horses that are fully vaccinated against Hendra virus.

Recognising a Possible Hendra Risk

Clinical signs of Hendra virus in horses can vary and may include:

• Fever
• Lethargy or depression
• Respiratory distress
• Nasal Discharge
• Neurological signs

These signs can also occur with many other conditions. If your horse is unwell, please contact the clinic promptly so we can advise on the safest next steps. 

Our Commitment to Safety

We understand that vaccination decisions can be complex. Our team is always happy to discuss Hendra virus vaccination, testing requirements, and how they may affect your horse's care. 

By working together, we can protect horses, owners, and veterinary staff while continuing to provide essential equine care.

Booking and Enquiries

If you have questions about Hendra vaccination or need to provide your horse's microchip number before a procedure, please contact Vet Cross. Our team will be happy to assist.