Hendra virus FAQs relating to flying foxes
- Are flying foxes the cause of the latest Hendra virus breakout?
- Does the Government plan to reduce the threat from Hendra virus by moving colonies?
- How do people find out locations of flying fox colonies?
- What happens if I get bitten or scratched by a flying fox?
- Can Hendra virus spread from flying foxes to animals other than horses?
- Can Hendra virus spread from flying foxes to humans?
- Are farmers or residents of urban areas who have problems with flying foxes at risk?
- Are wildlife carers at risk?
- Is the department checking on whether there are flying fox colonies near horse owners/businesses?
- Will the government reconsider its stance on stopping farmers from shooting flying foxes under damage mitigation permits?
- Are horse riders (pony clubs etc) at risk?
Are flying foxes the cause of the latest Hendra virus breakout?
We know there is a link between flying foxes and Hendra virus but we don't know the path. There is no evidence humans can catch it from flying foxes.
Does the Government plan to reduce the threat from Hendra virus by moving colonies?
No. Attempts to move colonies are not effective. Flying foxes are very mobile animals. They are found in many areas of Queensland, and some species regularly move camps, following food sources such as flowering trees. They also fly long distances at night between their camps and feeding sites. Flying foxes are an important part of our environment - they play a significant role as forest pollinators.
People need to recognise that colonies may be present in their local area and look after their horses by following DPIF guidelines e.g. covering horse troughs. Good hygiene is crucial.
How do people find out locations of flying fox colonies?
There is a map of flying fox camps in Qld on the department website www.epa.qld.gov.au Annual surveys are done to update the information, but people need to remember that many colonies move regularly. It's important to follow good hygiene practices even if you do not know if there are flying fox colonies in your area.
What happens if I get bitten or scratched by a flying fox?
Consult Queensland Health - information is on its website. (also repeated on the department website).
Can Hendra virus spread from flying foxes to animals other than horses?
Talk to DPIF about this.
Can Hendra virus spread from flying foxes to humans?
There is no evidence. So far, it appears it may go from flying foxes, to horses, to humans.
Are farmers or residents of urban areas who have problems with flying foxes at risk?
Hendra virus is not known to spread directly to humans.
Are wildlife carers at risk?
Hendra virus is not known to spread directly to humans. Hygiene practices must be followed as flying foxes are known to spread Lyssavirus to humans. Carers and other professionals who deal with flying foxes e.g. vets need to be vaccinated against Lyssavirus.
Is the department checking on whether there are flying fox colonies near horse owners/businesses?
Given the widespread and mobile nature of flying foxes, horse owners need to be following good hygiene practices as recommended by DPIF.
Will the government reconsider its stance on stopping farmers from shooting flying foxes under damage mitigation permits?
Allowing shooting would not reduce the potential risk of Hendra virus. Good hygiene must be followed by horse owners, in feed, water, and handling.
Are horse riders (pony clubs etc) at risk?
Follow good hygiene practices - talk to DPIF.
Last updated: 22 August 2008