Login | Request Account (DAF staff only)

Flying-fox species and Hendra virus spillover risk: comment on ‘Factors explaining the dispersal of Hendra virus disease in South-East Queensland’ by Burnham and Chong (2016)

Share this record

Add to FacebookAdd to LinkedinAdd to XAdd to WechatAdd to Microsoft_teamsAdd to WhatsappAdd to Any

Export this record

View Altmetrics

Field, H., Edson, D. and Smith, C. (2017) Flying-fox species and Hendra virus spillover risk: comment on ‘Factors explaining the dispersal of Hendra virus disease in South-East Queensland’ by Burnham and Chong (2016). Geocarto International, 32 (6). pp. 697-698. ISSN 1010-6049

Full text not currently attached. Access may be available via the Publisher's website or OpenAccess link.

Article Link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/10106049.2017.1282546

Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/10106049.2017.1282546

Abstract

Abstract:The approach taken by Burnham and Chong to explain the occurrence of Hendra virus incidents in Australia, while analytically valid, is compromised by erroneous and incomplete biological data underpinning the analyses. Firstly, they erroneously state the peak mating, pregnancy and birthing periods in black, grey-headed and little red flying-foxes, thus their related interpretations and conclusions are flawed. Secondly, the reported association between grey-headed flying-fox density and HeV incidents is at odds with recent findings suggesting grey-headed flying-foxes are an insubstantial host. While this broader epidemiological perspective was not within their stated aims, it is appropriate that it be canvassed in discussion of their geo-spatial analyses given the level of horse-industry, public and media interest in Hendra virus and the potential for confusion and mixed messages regarding HeV exposure risk management. We suggest that a broader collaborative cross-disciplinary approach offers synergies that produce robust, real-world ?one health? outputs.

Item Type:Article
Business groups:Biosecurity Queensland
Subjects:Veterinary medicine > Veterinary virology
Veterinary medicine > Communicable diseases of animals (General)
Live Archive:04 Jul 2017 03:25
Last Modified:03 Sep 2021 16:51

Repository Staff Only: item control page