An animal has tested positive to a serious and potentially deadly virus seen for the first time in three years, sparking urgent calls for vaccinations.

A horse in southeast Queensland has died after contracting Hendra virus, the state’s first case of the disease, which can be deadly to humans, since 2022.

Biosecurity Queensland has confirmed the Hendra virus case and is working with Queensland Health to ensure the risk to the public is managed, the health agency said.

Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today

The agency recorded the positive test results from an unvaccinated horse on Friday.

The horse died on the property after its condition rapidly deteriorated.

Horse owners are now being urged to vaccinate their animals while also taking precautionary steps to protect themselves from the virus.

Biosecurity Queensland Acting Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Fiona Thompson said the agency is working closely with the horse owner to ensure the risk is contained on the property.

The horse died on the property after its condition rapidly deteriorated. Credit: AAP

“Tracing and exposure assessments have been undertaken on other horses and animals on the property,” she said.

“We are also working with Queensland Health in relation to humans who may have had contact with the infected horse so their experts can manage the health of people involved.

“I’d like to commend the referral veterinarian for their professional management of this case and the biosecurity and human health risks that come along with a Hendra virus detection.”

Hendra virus is said to be transmitted from flying foxes to horses, and from horses to dogs and to humans.

There is no vaccine for humans against Hendra virus.

Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Heidi Carroll said Queensland Health was working closely with Biosecurity Queensland to support the public health situation.

Hendra virus is said to be transmitted from flying foxes. Credit: AAP

“Our public health staff have contacted all known people who have been exposed to the infectious horse,” Carroll said.

“While the Hendra virus can spread from horses to people, it is rare. We know from past cases of Hendra virus infection in horses that most people exposed remain well and don’t contract the infection.

“People who are assessed as having a high level of exposure to the infected horse will undergo prioritised testing for the virus.”

Queensland Health said horses may be infectious with Hendra virus before becoming noticeably unwell.

It is important to exercise good hygiene practices when interacting with any horse, including washing hands with soap and water regularly, and covering wounds with a waterproof dressing.

Since Hendra virus was identified in 1994, more than 90 horses are known to have been infected, Queensland Health said.

These animals have either died as a result of their infection or have been euthanised.

Seven people have been confirmed to have Hendra virus following high levels of exposure to infected horses. Four of these people died, the most recent in 2009.

Thompson said if a horse becomes sick, owners should contact their veterinarian immediately.

“Unfortunately, in this case, the deceased horse had not been vaccinated for Hendra virus,” Thompson said.

“Hendra virus infection can occur throughout the year, so it’s important that horse owners and people in contact with horses take steps to protect themselves and their animals at all times.

“We’d urge them to continue to practice good biosecurity and personal hygiene measures – even if a horse is vaccinated against Hendra virus.