HORSE owners on the Southern Downs are being encouraged to have their horses vaccinated against the hendra virus, following an outbreak of the deadly disease near Bundaberg last week.

Experts are calling on property owners to have their horses vaccinated against the deadly virus, after a horse was put down on a property in South Kolan near Bundaberg on Tuesday when it tested positive.

The Equivac HeV vaccine was launched in late 2012, with more than 80,000 horses vaccinated since its introduction.

Equine veterinarian Dr Nathan Anthony said of all the hendra virus prevention measures the vaccine was the most effective.

"The vaccination is so, so important," he said.

"If owners prevent hendra in horses, they protect everybody who comes into contact with horses."

Hendra virus can be difficult for vets to recognise, with early symptoms not necessarily specific to the virus.

"We're unable to definitely determine if we're dealing with hendra in the horse," he said.

"Infected horses can excrete the virus through body fluids up to 72 hours before showing any symptoms.

"Although hendra has a low likelihood, it has catastrophic consequences."

The mortality rate for hendra virus infected horses is 100%, with most horses dying as a direct result of the virus.

Dr Anthony said the high mortality rate made it important that owners stick to the course of the vaccine.

"The vaccine is initially two doses, three to six weeks apart," he said.

"From then onwards it's six monthly boosters, which should not be missed.

"Part of responsible horse ownership is vaccination."

Dr Anthony said having horses vaccinated was an easy process.

"It's simple - contact your local veterinarian," he said.

"All vets in Queensland who work with horses are accredited to do the vaccine."

For more details on hendra virus and vaccine, or if you suspect a horse may be infected, phone your local veterinarian or Biosecurity Queenslandon 13 25 23.

Hendra Virus

 First identified in a racing stable in Hendra (Brisbane) in 1994

 At least 60 horses have been infected by the virus in the last 20 years

 The mortality rate for horses is 100%

 Seven people are known to have contracted the virus, four of whom died

 Symptoms in horses include fever, increased heart rate, restlessness, difficulty breathing and muscle twitching

 It is thought that horses may contract hendra virus infection from eating matter recently contaminated with flying fox urine, saliva or birth products

 The Equivec HeV vaccine is the most effective prevention measure, with a booster shot required every six months