A tragic turn of events has unfolded. Health authorities are confirming the first fatal case of Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV)—a rare but deadly infection closely related to rabies.
Despite receiving treatment at the time, he sadly succumbed to the virus, prompting urgent warnings from health authorities for the public to steer clear of bats.
The victim, a man in his 50s from northern New South Wales, was bitten by a bat several months ago.
But what exactly is Australian bat lyssavirus? How worried should you be, and what steps can you take to protect yourself and your loved ones?
Let’s break down everything you need to know about this rare but serious disease.
What is the Australian bat lyssavirus?
Australian bat lyssavirus is a member of the lyssavirus family—the same viral group as rabies.
First identified in 1996 in a fruit bat in northern NSW, ABLV is the only lyssavirus known to be present in Australia.
While it’s extremely rare, it’s also extremely dangerous: once symptoms appear, there is no effective treatment.
The virus has been detected in several species of Australian bats, including flying foxes, fruit bats, and insect-eating microbats.
According to NSW Health, any bat in Australia could potentially carry the virus, regardless of how healthy it appears.
How do humans catch it?
The main way humans contract ABLV is through bites or scratches from infected bats. The virus is present in the saliva of infected animals and can enter the body through broken skin or mucous membranes (such as the eyes, nose, or mouth).
While it’s theoretically possible for the virus to be transmitted from an infected pet to a human, this is considered highly unlikely.
Person-to-person transmission has only ever been reported in cases involving organ or tissue transplants from infected donors.
How common is ABLV in Australia?
Thankfully, ABLV infection in humans is extremely rare. Since its discovery in the mid-1990s, there have been only four confirmed human cases in Australia—including the most recent one in NSW. Tragically, all have been fatal.
The first known human case was a Queensland wildlife carer in 1996. The second occurred in 1998, 27 months after a flying fox bite.
In 2012, a young boy died after unsolicited contact with a bat. There have also been a handful of cases in animals, including horses.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of ABLV infection are similar to those of rabies and can include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle weakness
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
- Paralysis
Once symptoms appear, the disease progresses rapidly and is almost always fatal. This is why prevention and immediate action after exposure are absolutely critical.
Is there a vaccine?
Yes—there is no specific ABLV vaccine, but the rabies vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection if given promptly after exposure.
For people at higher risk of coming into contact with bats (such as veterinarians, wildlife carers, and some utility workers), a course of three rabies vaccine injections over a month is recommended as a preventative measure.
Credit: ABC News / YouTube
What should you do if bitten or scratched by a bat?
If you are bitten or scratched by a bat, don’t panic—but do act quickly:
- Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes.
- Apply an antiseptic with antiviral properties, such as betadine, and allow it to dry.
- Seek medical attention immediately. You will likely need a series of rabies vaccine injections and possibly rabies immunoglobulin to help your immune system fight off the virus.
Because ABLV can have a long incubation period—sometimes several months—prompt treatment is highly effective if started before symptoms develop.
How can you avoid being bitten?
The best way to avoid ABLV is simple: don’t handle bats. Even if a bat appears injured, distressed, or sick, do not attempt to rescue or touch it. Bats on the ground are more likely to be unwell and could be carrying the virus.
If you find a bat in trouble, contact a trained and vaccinated wildlife handler or your local animal rescue service. Only professionals with the right training and protection should interact with bats.
Why are bats a concern?
Bats are fascinating creatures and play a vital role in our ecosystem, pollinating plants and controlling insect populations.
However, they are also known carriers of a range of viruses, many of which don’t make them sick but can be dangerous to humans.
It’s important to remember that the vast majority of people will never be exposed to ABLV. But for those who do come into contact with bats—whether by accident or through their work—the risk, while small, is very real.
Credit: 60 Minutes Australia / YouTube
A final word: Stay safe, stay informed
While the death of the NSW man is a sobering reminder of the risks associated with bats, it’s also a call to action for all of us to be vigilant and informed.
If you or someone you know is bitten or scratched by a bat, don’t delay—wash the wound, apply antiseptic, and seek medical help immediately.
Have you ever had a close encounter with a bat, or do you work in a field where you might be at risk? Do you have questions or concerns about ABLV or other zoonotic diseases? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—your story could help others stay safe and aware.
Also read: Australian man in critical condition after contracting rare virus
