South Australians are being reminded not to handle bats to avoid contracting potentially fatal diseases, after Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV) was recently detected in a bat in South Australia.
ABLV infection is a rabies-like disease that can be transmitted to humans who are bitten or scratched by an infected bat.
The positive result identified this week is the fifth detection of ABLV in a bat in South Australia this year, with a total of nine detections since the first in 2012.
As the weather warms up, the high temperatures also increase the number of heat-stressed bats and pups falling to the ground.
Like most wild animals, healthy bats are naturally shy and will not approach humans or allow themselves to be handled, so it’s easy to avoid contact.
However, if you are bitten or scratched by a bat, or come into contact with bat saliva, you should take immediate action by:
- Cleaning the area with soap and water for at least fifteen minutes
- Applying antiseptic with anti-virus action such as povidone-iodine
- Contacting a doctor or hospital emergency department immediately and commencing a course of post-exposure prophylaxis if necessary
If you do come across a bat that appears to be dead, injured or in distress, do not touch the bat and contact the Fauna Rescue SA bat helpline on 8486 1139 or Bat Rescue SA on 0475 132 093.
Quotesattributable to SA Health Deputy Director, Communicable Disease Control Branch,Dr Louise Flood
Whileonly one per cent of bats usually carry ABLV, this recent detection isconcerning and serves as an important reminder that bats should only ever behandled by appropriately trained and vaccinated animal handlers.
ABLV is a rabies-likedisease that can be transmitted to humans if they are bitten or scratched by aninfected bat and if treatment is delayed until after the onset of symptoms, thecondition is invariably fatal.
The risk of the developmentof ABLV can be minimised through prompt wound management and treatment but itis important to avoid contact in the first place.
Quotes attributable toDepartment of Primary Industries and Regions Acting Chief Veterinary Officer,Dr Elise Spark
Exposure to ABLV from batsis not only a concern for humans but also other animals so pet owners shouldensure their animals avoid any contact with bats.
If you notice bats aroundyour home, or encounter bats when out with your pets, ensure your animal isphysically separated from them to prevent interaction. This can be done byrelocating the pet indoors or elsewhere or keeping dogs on lead.
It is important to rememberthe valuable role bats play in pollination and pest insect control. Pets arenot at risk of contracting ABLV if interaction is avoided.
If you suspect your animalhas been in contact with a bat including being bitten or scratched, pleasecontact the 24/7 Emergency Animal Disease hotline on 1800 675 888 or your localvet.
