THE Thoroughbred Breeders Queensland Association says a parliamentary inquiry finding Hendra virus vaccinations should not be made mandatory is a win the industry.
TBQA president Basil Nolan said the one of 11 recommendations made by the Agriculture and Environment Committee, following its eight month inquiry into the Hendra Virus vaccine and workplace practices by veterinarians.
“This is great news for breeders, and the racing industry,” Mr Nolan said.
“The TBQA was extremely concerned about the financial burden of mandatory vaccination, along with the uncertainty of its effects on broodmares, foals and racehorses.
“The research is still in its infancy, and we felt there was insufficient evidence to force vaccination upon the industry.
“We believe this was more of a revenue raising exercise for vets and the drug manufacturing company.”
The TBQA lobbied both the State and Federal Governments extensively for research into HeV and the development of a vaccination, after the death of Rockhampton vet, Alister Rodgers in 2009.
“We were one of the leaders in the fight to find the cause and a treatment for the virus and we definitely do not want to see any more deaths, however we could not support mandatory vaccination,” Mr Nolan said.
Mr Nolan said the TBQA acknowledged the dangers vets face when treating sick horses, but said that everyone who has contact with a sick horse, from stud staff to strappers, face the same dangers.
“Everyone needs to be mindful of the deadly Hendra Virus and always wear PPE and follow strict hygiene procedures when treating a horse,” Mr Nolan said.
“We are all well aware of this virus now, and we can all take precautions to ensure there are no more fatalities.”
