The Australian paralysis tick may be the missing link in the transmission of Hendra virus from bats to horses to humans.

This study proposes that the Australian paralysis tick could be responsible for transmitting the Hendra virus from fruit-eating bats to horses, then to humans.

Background of the Hendra Virus

• Hendra virus is a novel virus from the Paramyxoviridae family, which was first discovered in Queensland, Australia, in 1994.
• Though newly discovered, there’s evidence that fruit-eating bats (flying-foxes) have long been hosts of the virus.
• Since its emergence, the virus has resulted in the death of at least 2 humans and 15 horses.

Transmission of Hendra Virus

• The virus is thought to transmit from flying-foxes to horses before passing on to humans.
• While the horse-to-human transmission hypothesis is well-supported — possibly through nasal discharge, saliva or urine — the means through which the virus is transmitted from flying-foxes to humans hasn’t been as clear.

Australian Paralysis Tick

• The Australian paralysis tick (Ixodes holocyclus) could provide the missing link regarding the transmission of the Hendra virus from flying-foxes to other mammals, including horses.
• The tick, which has seemingly only recently become a parasite of flying-foxes, is presented as a potential host and vector for the Hendra virus.

In conclusion, the research presents compelling evidence that the Australian paralysis tick may play a critical role in the transmission of the Hendra virus from flying-foxes to horses and subsequently to humans. However, further studies might be required to solidify this proposition and determine how this transmission can be effectively prevented or controlled.