Virus detected in South Australian bats

08 December 2023

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.

Quotes attributable to SA Health Deputy Director, Communicable Disease Control Branch, Dr Louise Flood

While only one per cent of bats usually carry ABLV, this recent detection is concerning and serves as an important reminder that bats should only ever be handled by appropriately trained and vaccinated animal handlers.

ABLV is a rabies-like disease that can be transmitted to humans if they are bitten or scratched by an infected bat and if treatment is delayed until after the onset of symptoms, the condition is invariably fatal.

The risk of the development of ABLV can be minimised through prompt wound management and treatment but it is important to avoid contact in the first place.

Quotes attributable to Department of Primary Industries and Regions Acting Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Elise Spark

Exposure to ABLV from bats is not only a concern for humans but also other animals so pet owners should ensure their animals avoid any contact with bats.

If you notice bats around your home, or encounter bats when out with your pets, ensure your animal is physically separated from them to prevent interaction. This can be done by relocating the pet indoors or elsewhere or keeping dogs on lead.

It is important to remember the valuable role bats play in pollination and pest insect control. Pets are not at risk of contracting ABLV if interaction is avoided.

If you suspect your animal has been in contact with a bat including being bitten or scratched, please contact the 24/7 Emergency Animal Disease hotline on 1800 675 888 or your local vet.