Published Tuesday, 02 September, 2008 at 03:02 PM
Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries
The Honourable Tim Mulherin
Independent Hendra Review
Primary Industries and Fisheries Minister Tim Mulherin MP has announced that a leading veterinary epidemiologist has been appointed to independently review DPI&F’s response in recent Hendra Virus cases.
Dr Nigel Perkins is a director of AusVet Animal Health Services and a co-ordinator of the disease surveillance program for the Australian Biosecurity Cooperative Research Centre for Emerging Infectious Disease.
“Dr Perkins has extensive experience as a veterinary epidemiologist and expertise in disease control. Clearly he is well qualified to conduct this independent review of the cases at Redlands and Proserpine,” Mr Mulherin said.
“He has a sound track record in veterinary disease research and produced a professional report following his review of a 2006 Hendra case at Peachester, north of Brisbane.
“There’s no doubt that Dr Perkins is well placed to ensure a quality review of the Department’s handling of the recent Hendra cases at Redlands and Proserpine and to identify possible learnings.”
Following the case of Hendra Virus at Peachester Dr Perkins conducted an independent review of DPI&F’s operating procedures and the appropriateness of its actions.
Outcomes of Dr Perkins’ report were used as part of the Department’s continuous improvement approach to Biosecurity.
“I am confident Dr Perkins will conduct a thorough and comprehensive review of the Department’s responses to these recent Biosecurity cases,” Mr Mulherin said.
“Clearly Dr Perkins has the necessary qualifications to pinpoint any improvements that may be required in the handling of cases of this concerning disease.
“I’m advised that DPI&F is already carrying out continuous reviews as part of their normal commitment to best practice in Biosecurity.”
The Australian Veterinary Association and the Queensland Horse Council were consulted in relation to the Review’s Terms Of Reference.
“The Terms Of Reference will enable Dr Perkins to identify how Hendra is evolving as a biosecurity concern as well as ways the Department may be able to improve its response and services for horse owners,” Mr Mulherin said.
“I’ve already committed to table this report in the Parliament and Dr Perkins has been asked to complete his work by the end of October.”
Hendra Review Terms Of Reference
1. Identify possible learnings from the DPI&F’s response to the equine Hendra virus cases at Redlands and Proserpine in July and August 2008; with regard to;
• New scientific knowledge including any change in the virus or clinical signs
• DPI&F Standard Operating Procedures
• Standards for handling of suspect Hendra virus cases in all equine – Guidelines for veterinarians (DPI&F website)
• Appropriate veterinary hygiene standards for DPI&F officers
• Applicable workplace health and safety requirements for DPI&F officers
• Communication with private veterinarians, owners of affected animals and other stakeholders
2. Make findings or recommendations in respect of the appropriateness of DPI&F’s actions, including adoption of recommendations arising from previous Hendra virus incidents.
3. Engage with relevant stakeholders including the Australian Veterinary Association, the Queensland Horse Council and private veterinary practitioners.
4. Present a report to the Director-General and the Managing Director, Biosecurity Queensland by no later than 31 October 2008.
Media: 3239 6530
Dr Nigel Perkins is a director of AusVet Animal Health Services and a co-ordinator of the disease surveillance program for the Australian Biosecurity Cooperative Research Centre for Emerging Infectious Disease.
“Dr Perkins has extensive experience as a veterinary epidemiologist and expertise in disease control. Clearly he is well qualified to conduct this independent review of the cases at Redlands and Proserpine,” Mr Mulherin said.
“He has a sound track record in veterinary disease research and produced a professional report following his review of a 2006 Hendra case at Peachester, north of Brisbane.
“There’s no doubt that Dr Perkins is well placed to ensure a quality review of the Department’s handling of the recent Hendra cases at Redlands and Proserpine and to identify possible learnings.”
Following the case of Hendra Virus at Peachester Dr Perkins conducted an independent review of DPI&F’s operating procedures and the appropriateness of its actions.
Outcomes of Dr Perkins’ report were used as part of the Department’s continuous improvement approach to Biosecurity.
“I am confident Dr Perkins will conduct a thorough and comprehensive review of the Department’s responses to these recent Biosecurity cases,” Mr Mulherin said.
“Clearly Dr Perkins has the necessary qualifications to pinpoint any improvements that may be required in the handling of cases of this concerning disease.
“I’m advised that DPI&F is already carrying out continuous reviews as part of their normal commitment to best practice in Biosecurity.”
The Australian Veterinary Association and the Queensland Horse Council were consulted in relation to the Review’s Terms Of Reference.
“The Terms Of Reference will enable Dr Perkins to identify how Hendra is evolving as a biosecurity concern as well as ways the Department may be able to improve its response and services for horse owners,” Mr Mulherin said.
“I’ve already committed to table this report in the Parliament and Dr Perkins has been asked to complete his work by the end of October.”
Hendra Review Terms Of Reference
1. Identify possible learnings from the DPI&F’s response to the equine Hendra virus cases at Redlands and Proserpine in July and August 2008; with regard to;
• New scientific knowledge including any change in the virus or clinical signs
• DPI&F Standard Operating Procedures
• Standards for handling of suspect Hendra virus cases in all equine – Guidelines for veterinarians (DPI&F website)
• Appropriate veterinary hygiene standards for DPI&F officers
• Applicable workplace health and safety requirements for DPI&F officers
• Communication with private veterinarians, owners of affected animals and other stakeholders
2. Make findings or recommendations in respect of the appropriateness of DPI&F’s actions, including adoption of recommendations arising from previous Hendra virus incidents.
3. Engage with relevant stakeholders including the Australian Veterinary Association, the Queensland Horse Council and private veterinary practitioners.
4. Present a report to the Director-General and the Managing Director, Biosecurity Queensland by no later than 31 October 2008.
Media: 3239 6530