Lyssavirus warning as bats fall victim to heat, disease

The threat of deadly lyssavirus has prompted a warning from Qld Heath against touching fallen or injured flying foxes as the number being found on the ground and in people’s yards spikes.

Queenslanders are being urged not to touch or handle bats that may have fallen from trees, even if they are injured, to avoid becoming infected with Australian bat lyssavirus. Picture: Brendan Radke

Queenslanders are being urged not to touch or handle bats that may have fallen from trees, even if they are injured, to avoid becoming infected with Australian bat lyssavirus.

Flying Fox Paralysis Syndrome is occurring across South East Queensland which, along with the extreme heat, is leading to unwell bats being found on the ground and in people’s yards.

Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Heidi Carroll said it was important to never touch bats, even if they are injured or sick, as they could transmit the deadly lyssavirus.

Queenslanders are being urged not to touch or handle bats that may have fallen from trees, even if they are injured, to avoid becoming infected with Australian bat lyssavirus. Photo: Tanya Fountain.

“It’s important to remember that lyssavirus is fatal in humans and there is no known effective treatment once symptoms have started,” Dr Carroll said.

“The infection can cause paralysis, delirium, convulsions and even death. That’s why it’s important to seek urgent medical help, even if some time has passed.

“There are preventative treatments like vaccines that are available if you have been exposed but the key is getting that treatment as soon as possible to avoid symptoms developing.”

Grey-headed flying fox. Queenslanders are being urged not to touch or handle bats that may have fallen from trees, even if they are injured, to avoid becoming infected with Australian bat lyssavirus.

Historically, of the three recorded deaths from lyssavirus in the country, two were in Queensland.

Dr Carroll said it was important for families with children to educate them on the dangers of handling a bat found on the ground, including the backyard, in summer.

“If you think your child may have been bitten or scratched, wash the wound immediately with soap and clean water for at least 5 minutes to reduce the risk of infection,” she said.

“If you have antiseptic, apply that to the wound after you have washed it. But please see a doctor as soon as you can.”

If you find an injured bat or flying fox, contact the RSPCA (1300 ANIMAL) or your local wildlife care group.

More information about human health and bats is available through Queensland Health.

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Originally published as Lyssavirus warning as bats fall victim to heat, disease