A new virus found in bats could help Geelong scientists find more information into the deadly Hendra and Nipah viruses.

While the Cedar Virus, which has been found in Queensland, is a close relative, it doesn't cause the serious illness in several animal species.

Although it is too early to rule out illness or death in horses or other animals from the Cedar virus.

GARY CRAMERI from the CSIRO Animal Health Lab in Geelong says they're hoping to identify some genes in Hendra they may be able to target.

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