Two people who have been in close contact with a horse that was infected with Hendra virus in Mackay, North Queensland, will receive an antibody therapy on 'compassionate' grounds, aimed at preventing them from developing the deadly disease.
Seven confirmed cases of the disease have been diagnosed in humans, resulting in four deaths.
"The manufacture of the product is done to pharmaceutical-level standards, so we know it's safe," he said. Rockhampton veterinarian Alister Rodgers was the first person in the world to receive the US-developed antibody therapy in a desperate, unsuccessful bid to save his life after he was diagnosed with Hendra virus in 2009.
Dr Playford said the antibody therapy was given too late and at too low a dose to be effective in Dr Rodgers' case. He said the therapy needed to be given after a person had contact with an infected horse but before they developed symptoms.
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Vets urge horse vaccinations to protect humans from deadly HendraA highly lethal virus has been detected in North Queensland and vets say it's a cause for concern.
Read more »
Horse euthanised after Queensland records first case of Hendra virus in five yearsAuthorities have told horse owners to get their horses vaccinated and to limit contact with flying foxes.
Read more »
Humans need to value nature as well as profits to survive, UN report findsFocus on market has led to climate crises, with spiritual, cultural and emotional benefits of nature ignored
Read more »
Horse euthanised after Queensland records first case of Hendra virus in five yearsAuthorities have told horse owners to get their horses vaccinated and to limit contact with flying foxes.
Read more »
Vets urge horse vaccinations to protect humans from deadly HendraA highly lethal virus has been detected in North Queensland and vets say it's a cause for concern.
Read more »
COVID-19 antiviral treatments to be made available to more Australians. Here's who is eligibleMore Australians can receive COVID-19 antiviral drugs from Monday in an attempt to reduce the number of people in hospital.
Read more »