First NT detection of Hendra virus in a bat
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) has confirmed the Northern Territory’s first detection of Hendra virus in a bat, following a positive test result on 11 December 2025.
DAF Acting Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Sue Fitzpatrick, said the detection was not unexpected, as Little Red and Black Flying Fox bats are the natural host of the virus and over 20% of bats have been exposed to the virus in the NT.
“Hendra virus is a known viral infection that can affect horses, and in rare cases can spread from horses to people,” Dr Fitzpatrick said.
"There are no known instances of dogs becoming infected with Hendra virus through contact with bats.
“This detection in a bat does not change the current level of risk to horses, pets or the community. It simply confirms the virus is present in the NT’s bat population, as it is in other parts of northern Australia. Further surveillance and sampling is now underway.”
Dr Fitzpatrick said horse owners can continue to manage risk through established and effective measures.
“We encourage horse owners to vaccinate their horses, particularly in areas where large bat populations are present,” she said.
“Everyone working with or around horses should continue practising good biosecurity and personal hygiene, even if horses are vaccinated. If a horse becomes unwell, contact your local veterinarian straight away.”
Horse owners are reminded of the importance of having a property identification code (PIC), that identifies where livestock including horses are located.
A PIC is an important biosecurity tool to manage disease outbreaks.
The department will notify horse owners and horse associations, with advice on clinical signs to monitor.
Early signs of illness in horses can include:
- fever
- increased heart rate
- discomfort or shifting weight between legs
- rapid or difficult breathing.
Steps horse owners can take to reduce risk include
- preventing horse feed and water from becoming contaminated by flying fox droppings or fluids
- isolating sick horses early while awaiting veterinary assessment
- maintaining good hygiene, cleaning and biosecurity routines.
There is no vaccine for humans against Hendra virus. Because horses can shed the virus before appearing unwell, it is important for anyone handling horses to maintain routine hygiene practices, such as:
- washing hands regularly with soap and water
- covering any open cuts with a waterproof dressing
- wearing personal protective equipment when exposure to horse body fluids is possible
- washing skin that contacts horse body fluids or manure.
Information on Hendra virus and horse health
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