Racing Queensland has begun a subsidised program of vaccination against the deadly Hendra virus available to all registered thoroughbred and harness racehorses throughout the state.

RQ chairman Kevin Dixon said the bat-borne virus, which has mostly been found in Queensland, was a risk to the industry and those who worked in it.

"It's vital that we prioritise the health and safety of the horse racing industry," Dixon said.

"Once a horse is infected, the serious effects of the disease and inevitable loss of life is intolerable.

"There is also a high risk of our trainers, jockeys and stable hands inadvertently coming into contact with a Hendra virus-infected horse via the animal's body fluids.

"It is our responsibility to minimise any risk and vaccination is the single most effective means of achieving this.

"Hendra virus has the potential to cripple the racing industry, so doing nothing is not an option. We have made the decision to roll out a vaccination program which aims to be affordable to trainers and owners."

The horses will be given two initial doses of the vaccine, administered by an accredited veterinarian, 21-42 days apart. Horses will be protected for a minimum of six months, at which time a single booster is given.

Further research is being carried out to determine whether the vaccine booster interval will be extended to 12 months.

RQ said it negotiated with pharmaceutical company Zoetis and Equine Veterinarians Australia (EVA) to make the vaccination program as economical as possible for racehorse trainers and owners.

Dixon said the costs for the primary course of injections would be between $106.50 and $146.50 and stewards would scrutinise applications to ensure only eligible horses were vaccinated.