Bat urine provides Hendra breakthrough

Scientists have discovered a pathogen in bat urine which could lead to better understanding of deadly viruses such as Hendra.

The discovered pathogen is thought to be harmless to humans and other animals but is a close relative of the rare Hendra virus.

The CSIRO have called the discovery “a lightbulb moment” that could help in the development of a Hendra vaccine for humans.

The virus was named Cedar after being discovered in Cedar Grove south of Brisbane.