More time for Hendra submissions

The date for submissions into the Hendra review has been extended to Friday, November 7, 2008.

Primary Industries and Fisheries Minister Tim Mulherin announced last month that leading veterinary epidemiologist, Dr Nigel Perkins, would conduct an independent review into DPI&F’s response to this year’s Hendra virus cases

Mr Mulherin said anyone wishing to put in a written submission or talk directly with Dr Perkins should contact the DPI&F Business Information Centre on 13 25 23.

“Dr Perkins has already met with a diverse group of stakeholders to gain their feedback on the department’s response to this year’s Hendra virus cases,” Mr Mulherin said.

“Input into the review process has been provided by the Communicable Diseases Unit of Queensland Health, horse owners, private vets and other interested people.

“Dr Perkins has also interviewed a large number of departmental officers, including those involved in the on-ground response at Proserpine and Redlands, as well as managers, communication officers and laboratory staff.

“The deadline for the review has been extended into November to ensure all relevant parties can be interviewed and to allow time for several expected written submissions from key stakeholder groups.”

Dr Nigel Perkins is a director of AusVet Animal Health Services and a coordinator 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,” Mr Mulherin said.

“Clearly he is well qualified to conduct this independent review of the cases at Redlands and Proserpine and pinpoint any improvements that may be required in the handling of cases of this concerning disease.

“I am confident Dr Perkins will conduct a thorough and comprehensive review of the department’s responses to these recent biosecurity cases.

“I am advised that DPI&F is carrying out an after-action review as part of their normal continuous improvement processes after a biosecurity event.

“I’ve already committed to table this report in the Parliament and Dr Perkins has been asked to complete his work by 17 November 2008.”

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 17 November 2008.

Anyone wishing to put in a written submission or talk directly with Dr Perkins should contact the DPI&F Business Information Centre on 13 25 23.

Media: 32396530