Don’t touch: Health warning after dead bat found on Brisbane’s southside

Queensland Health has issued a warning after a dead bat was found on Brisbane’s southside and following a number of reported injuries.

The state health department is warning people across the southeast not to touch dead or distressed bats after a dead bat was found on Brisbane’s southside this week and following a number of reported injuries.

Health officials made the warning after people were believed to have been handling the dead bat, which later tested negative to the potentially deadly lyssavirus disease, similar to rabies.

Officials said it was a timely reminder to warn people not to touch the animals.

Metro South Public Health Physician Dr Bhakti Vasant said bats, microbats and flying foxes may carry bacteria and viruses that can be harmful to humans, including lyssavirus.

“Bats don’t normally approach humans,” Dr Vasant said.

Queensland Health has issued a warning to people not to touch bats after a dead bat was found on Brisbane's southside.

“When people try to move a bat that appears to be dead or injured, that’s when they are most likely to be scratched or bitten.

“Scratches and bites from a bat as well as bat saliva in your eyes, nose or mouth, are very serious and require immediate first aid and medical assessment.

“Please leave bat rescues to trained carers and wildlife professionals, who are vaccinated against rabies and have the right protective equipment.”

Two flying foxes found at Regents Park in Logan tested positive for lyssavirus in February.

They were believed to have been from a large colony that has had a roost in the area for years.

■ CONTACT: To report a sick or dead bat, call the RSPCA on 1300 264 625 but do not touch the animal.

■ CALL 13 432 584 or visit a doctor immediately after being bitten or any contact.

Prompt treatment following a bat scratch or bite can prevent serious disease and possibly death.