16092011 Flying foxes and Hendra virus: your questions answered
Biosecurity Queensland, in conjunction with the Department of Environment and Resource Management and Queensland Health, is hosting a panel discussion on Friday, September 23. The forum will be broadcast online from 12.00pm to 1.30pm.
“Having an independent moderator choose the questions for the panel will ensure the experts focus on the issues the community wants clarified,” Dr Symons said.
“We are expecting that flying fox management, developing a Hendra virus vaccine and the latest research will be among the most popular topics.”
People are invited to submit their questions for consideration via the website – www.qld.gov.au/flyingfoxforum – by 5pm Tuesday, September 20. Then watch the live stream on www.qld.gov.au/flyingfoxforum or the Biosecurity Queensland Facebook page on September 23.
The panel of experts comprises:
o Mr Clive Cook, Senior Director, Department of Environment and Resource Management
o Dr Michael Cleary, Queensland Health’s Acting Chief Health Officer
o Dr Rick Symons, Biosecurity Queensland’s Chief Veterinary Officer
o Dr Hume Field, Biosecurity Queensland’s Principal Scientist.
Dr Symons said busting the myths surrounding Hendra virus was a vital step towards ensuring the community and industry was informed and safe.
“It’s crucial that people get the correct and latest information about Hendra virus.
“It is particularly important that horse owners are informed about the virus and are aware of the precautions they can take to protect their animals and themselves.”
Quick facts about Hendra virus:
o it is a zoonotic disease, which means it can transfer from horses to humans
o horses can contract the virus from flying foxes
o there have been 11 confirmed horse deaths in Queensland this year
o one property in the Gold Coast hinterland is currently the only Queensland site under quarantine for Hendra virus.
