Review into virus outbreak in northeast Australia
Updated
The state government of Queensland has announced an independent review of the primary industry department's handling of the latest Hendra virus outbreak.
Fruit bats are believed to be the natural 'host' of the virus, which when transmitted to humans and horses can be lethal.
The virus has killed one person, and six horses.
Dr Ben Cunneen died on Wednesday night after contracting the illness while working with horses at a Redlands veterinary clinic last month.
A colleague who was also infected has been released from hospital.
Dr Cunneen is the third person to die from the rare disease since 1994.
The primary industries minister, Tim Mulherin, has called for a report into the way authorities handled the case.
Despite the latest death, the state government has ruled out screening every horse for the disease saying it isn't necessary.
The Redlands clinic remains under quarantine pending the outcome of more tests.
