Health authorities are sounding fresh warnings, urging greater caution amid growing concerns over wildlife-related health risks.
A rare but serious illness has now drawn national attention, raising questions about how such infections are transmitted.
The warning follows a recent medical emergency involving a man in his 50s who is now in critical condition after contracting Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV)—a deadly virus spread by bats.
What is Australian bat lyssavirus?
Australian bat lyssavirus is a close relative of the rabies virus. It was first discovered in 1996 near Ballina, New South Wales (NSW), when a flying fox displayed unusual symptoms.
The virus was later confirmed through gene sequencing at the CSIRO. Since then, Australian bat lyssavirus has been found in several species of flying foxes, fruit bats, and even insect-eating microbats across Australia.
While the virus is incredibly rare in humans—this is only the fourth confirmed case in Australia—it is almost always fatal once symptoms appear.
The virus is transmitted when the saliva of an infected bat enters the body through a bite or scratch.
Infected bats can also spread the virus to other mammals, including humans, and not all infected bats show obvious signs of illness.
How does infection occur?
Keira Glasgow, Director in Health Protection at NSW Health, explained that the man currently in hospital had been bitten by a bat several months ago and received treatment at the time.
However, further investigations are underway to determine if other factors contributed to his illness.
So far in 2024, 118 people in NSW have required medical assessment after being bitten or scratched by bats.
This is the first confirmed case of Australian bat lyssavirus in the state this year.
Previous cases have all ended in tragedy, including the deaths of two Queensland women in 1996 and 1998, and an eight-year-old child in 2013. All had been bitten or scratched by bats.
Why are bats a risk?
Bats play a crucial role in pollination and insect control, but they can also harbour viruses that are dangerous to humans.
The risk is highest for people who come into close contact with bats, such as wildlife carers, veterinarians, cave explorers, and power-line workers.
For this reason, these groups are strongly advised to be vaccinated against rabies and to use protective equipment when handling bats.
What should you do if you encounter a bat?
The message from health authorities is clear: do not touch or handle bats under any circumstances, even if they appear injured or in distress.
Only trained, vaccinated, and properly protected wildlife handlers should interact with bats.
If you are bitten or scratched by a bat, immediate action is crucial:
- 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 urgent medical attention—you will likely require treatment with rabies immunoglobulin and a course of rabies vaccine
NSW Health also advises that if you find a bat in distress, do not attempt a rescue yourself.
Instead, contact a wildlife rescue group such as the Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service (WIRES) on 1300 094 737.
How is the virus diagnosed and treated?
Australian bat lyssavirus infection can be diagnosed through testing of blood, spinal fluid, skin, or nervous tissue.
Unfortunately, once symptoms develop—such as numbness, weakness, confusion, or coma—there is no effective treatment, and the disease is almost always fatal.
This makes prevention and early intervention absolutely critical.
A rare but serious threat
While the risk of contracting Australian bat lyssavirus is extremely low for the general public, the consequences are severe.
The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to avoid all contact with bats and to educate others about the risks.
A call for awareness and caution
This latest case is a stark reminder that even rare diseases can have devastating effects.
Bats are fascinating creatures and essential to our environment, but they are best admired from a safe distance.
If you work or volunteer in environments where bat contact is possible, make sure your vaccinations are up to date and always use protective gear.
Have you ever encountered a bat while tending your garden or enjoying your local park? Do you know someone who works with wildlife or volunteers in rescue operations?
Let us know your thoughts or experiences in the comments—your story may help others stay informed and safe.
Also read: What is Australian bat lyssavirus? Can I catch it from bat poo? What if bats roost near me?
