Be cautious with bats

With bat breeding season currently under way across Far North Queensland, residents of Cape York, the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area have been warned to keep their distance.

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service Public Health Medical Officer Dr Allison Hempenstall said any bat species could be carrying a potentially fatal disease to humans.

“Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV) is closely related to rabies and has led to a small number of deaths in Queensland,” she said.

“There have been no cases recorded on Cape York, the Torres Strait, or Northern Peninsula Area so far this year,

“But if you do get bitten or scratched, you will need medical attention.

“It’s the same treatment as for a bite by a rabid dog or monkey in Asia and involves a series of painful injections.”

Dr Hempenstall said people should not touch a bat – whether sick or well, adult or pup, dead or alive.

“You don’t know if it’s infected and you should call a trained and vaccinated bat carer who can safely rescue it,’’ she said.

“Bats can bite or scratch through a towel or leather glove so the best thing to do is to stay clear and let a professional handle it.

“If you have been bitten or scratched by a flying-fox then immediately wash the wound, apply antiseptic, and seek urgent medical advice as post-exposure treatment is available. ‘’

If you find an injured bat or flying-fox, contact the RSPCA (1300 ANIMAL) or your local wildlife care group, or the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (1300 130 372) for assistance.

Do not attempt to assist the animal yourself.

For further information:

• phone 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84).
• visit the Australian bat lyssavirus Queensland Government website.