‘Rabies-Like’ ABLV Virus Found in Bat in South Australia

A flying fox–commonly known as a giant fruit bat–hangs from its roost in Sydney, Australia. (Ian Waldie/Getty Images)

South Australians are being warned to be careful around bats after the Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV) was discovered in the state.

The state’s health department warned residents not to handle bats after the “rabies-like disease” was detected in a bat.

The virus has been discovered five times this year and nine times since 2012 in South Australia. However, only one percent of bats carry the virus.

“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,” SA Health said in a release.

Healthy bats are naturally shy and are not likely to approach humans, so avoiding contact should be easy, SA Health said.

‘Heat-Stressed’ Bats Could Fall To The Ground

However, amid the summer season, soaring temperatures could lead to more bats and pups feel stressed and fall to the ground.

The department advised the community to apply antiseptic with anti-virus action such as povidone-iodine if bitten or scratched by a bat or in contact with bat saliva.

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Other advice includes cleaning the impacted area with soap and water for at least 15 minutes and contacting a doctor or hospital emergency department immediately.

SA Health communicable disease control branch deputy director Dr. Louise Flood explained the risk of developing ABLV can be reduced via prompt wound management, although she advised against direct contact with bats in the first place.

“While only one percent 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,” Dr. Flood said. 

“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.”

Keep an Eye out for Pets

Meanwhile, the Department of Primary Industries and Regions advised exposure to the ABLV virus can also be a risk for pets.

The department’s acting chief veterinary officer Dr. Elise Spark said pets are not at risk of contracting ABLV if interaction is avoided.

“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,” Dr. Spark said.

“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.”

Dr. Spark said it is important to remember the valuable role bats play in pollination and pest insect control.

“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,” she added.