DPI&F Biosecurity Queensland

Equine Influenza Update

Issue No. 9 - Saturday 8th September 2007

CAUTION - People risk spreading horse flu

People moving between farms or stables are a major risk-factor for spreading of horse flu (equine influenza) according to Queensland's Chief Veterinary Officer.

Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) Biosecurity Queensland's chief vet Dr Ron Glanville said all horse owners need to realise that people can carry the horse flu virus on their clothes, shoes, hats, hair or body.

"People should avoid moving between farms or stables unless it is absolutely necessary, and then, only when correct decontamination is employed," Dr Glanville said.

"While there is no risk to human health from equine influenza, it is essential that people who are exposed to horses or who have regular contact with horses should shower and change into clean clothing and footwear and a clean hat, before coming into contact with any other horses," he said.

Read full media release and biosecurity precautions for people in contact with horses

Stockman arrested over illegal horse movement

A 21-year-old stockman was issued with a Notice to Appear today following the movement of two horses to his home at Bowenville from a feedlot facility near Dalby on August 29.

The movement was in contravention of the current equine standstill in force throughout the state.

The man is expected to appear in the Dalby Magistrates Court on September 17 to answer a charge under the provisions of the Exotic Diseases in Animals Act 1981.

Read full police media release

Infected Properties in North and North-west Queensland

One horse tested positive in Julia Creek and one in Gordonvale, bringing the current number of properties in Queensland infected with Equine Influenza to 50 (as at 6pm Sat 8/9/2007).

Read media release about NQ and NWQ cases (issued Friday 7 Sept 2007)

Register horse ownership and for E-updates on-line

It is important that all horse owners complete the DPI&F online registration form. This will help the DPI&F get email newsletters and hard copy information to horse owners as well as help with disease surveillance. Even if you do not own a horse, you can forward this newsletter to your friends - but make sure they click on this link and subscribe to get e-updates in the future.

Click here to register horse ownership and/or e-updates

Check out the DPI&F Equine Influenza website

The DPI&F website has lots more information about the equine influenza outbreak, biosecurity precautions, frequently asked questions and answers. If you need more information, call the DPI&F on 132523.

Click here to go to the DPI&F website