Hendra virus, believed to come from a type of bat, can infect horses and humans through contaminated bodily fluids. There is no current treatment, but researchers are investigating preventative measures, including a vaccine and good hygiene practices.
Hendra virus was originally discovered when a small group of horses and people in Australia developed an unusual neurological and respiratory condition. Only three people were affected by Hendra virus disease, but two of those three people died. Researchers are currently looking into treatments for this rare disease, and preventative measures should be taken until they discover an effective treatment.
Previously referred to as equine morbillivirus, Hendra virus is believed to come from a type of bat called a flying fox. This species of bat infected horses in Australia when the horse’s food became contaminated with the urine, faecal matter or bodily fluid of an infected bat. Infected horses, in turn, infected people when they secreted mucus, saliva, blood, or other fluids; people have come in contact with these fluids through the mouth, nose, eyes or open wounds. Hendra virus is not believed to spread from one person to another or from the flying fox bat to people.
As this is an extremely rare disease, very few people have been confirmed to be infected with the Hendra virus. Those people who were infected were tested for the virus and typically had symptoms similar to the flu virus. These symptoms included headache, cough, sore throat, fever and lethargy. In at least one case, encephalitis occurred, causing the affected individual’s brain to become inflamed. When a sick horse infects a person, it can take five days to three weeks for symptoms to show.
Research is still ongoing to determine the best treatment for people infected with the Hendra virus. No treatment is currently available, but ribavirin has been shown to be an effective drug in laboratory settings. Among those infected with the disease, the best treatment was received when symptoms were treated in a hospital setting. For example, reducing fever and keeping lungs clear with general medical services has worked well.
Researchers are currently investigating ways to prevent infection in horses. While they’re working on a vaccine, they’re also encouraging horse owners to store horse feed in areas where it can’t be contaminated by bats. To prevent spread to humans, good hygiene, such as hand washing, is encouraged, especially if caring for horses. Also, any cuts or open wounds should be covered. Care should also be taken to avoid contact with horse fluids.
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