Queensland Health has denied a back-flip on its treatment of Mudgeeraba residents, exposed to the deadly Hendra virus.
All seven were told they did not require testing, something they are now being offered.
It is true, Queensland Health is now offering Hendra Virus testing to these residents
Just a reminder, first, of how they came to be exposed.
A group of Mudgeeraba locals had come to the aid of a horse, unaware it was being tested for the deadly Hendra virus. It has since been put down, after testing positive.
At the time, they were told they had a low risk of contracting the virus, and that includes a man who put his hands in the horse’s mouth.
They were all advised to simply monitor their health.
Now they’re being offered testing, But doctors say, that doesn’t mean their risk has increased.
They simply offered the group blood tests to help alleviate any anxiety or concerns they may have.
Now all those exposed have taken up the offer, and will have another two tests, at three and six weeks.
But as you can imagine, they’re in for a nervous wait.
“It’s a bit of a worry but I suppose it will be a bit of peace of mind to know that we’ve either got it or we haven’t.”
“A little bit anxious obviously with the testing it makes it go up a level but still pretty confident. Low risk that well be ok.”
Now the residents are still upset they weren’t told the horse was being tested for Hendra Virus before they went to untangle it.
They want protocols changed, so that not just the horse owner, but the property owner is informed, to ensure suspect horses are properly quarantined.
