DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Hendra Virus Infection
A rare zoonotic virus transmitted from horses to humans, causing severe respiratory and neurological disease. First identified in Hendra, Australia in 1994. Fruit bats (flying foxes) are natural reservoir. Case fatality rate 57%. Only reported in Australia.
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Symptoms
Treatment Options
Risk Factors
Diagnostic Methods
- 1RT-PCR
- 2Serological tests
- 3Viral isolation
- 4Immunohistochemistry
- 5Clinical evaluation
- 6Epidemiological link (horse contact)
Prognosis
Guarded. Case fatality rate 57%. Survivors may have long-term neurological complications. Relapse encephalitis reported. Recovery incomplete in many. Permanent brain damage possible. Horse vaccination prevents human cases.
Prevention
- EquiVac HeV vaccine for horses
- Personal protective equipment
- Isolation of sick horses
- Quarantine protocols
- Surveillance in flying foxes
- Avoid contact with sick horses
- Veterinary biosecurity
- Health education for horse handlers
Research Status
No specific treatment or vaccine for humans. Supportive care only. EquiVac HeV vaccine available for horses prevents transmission to humans. Isolation of sick horses. Personal protective equipment when handling horses. Surveillance in flying fox populations.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.cdc.gov/vhf/hendra
- https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
- https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.