**Surge in Bat Encounters Raises Alarm Over Australian Bat Lyssavirus in New South Wales**
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Residents of New South Wales are being urged to exercise caution following a significant uptick in encounters with bats. In a two-week period, health officials reported that 43 individuals were either bitten or scratched, a figure that represents an alarming increase compared to the same timeframe last year. This surge has raised concerns about the potential transmission of the Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV), a rare yet fatal virus.
The New South Wales Health Department recently issued a warning to its citizens, advising them to remain vigilant and avoid any contact with bats. The ABLV poses severe risks, as there is no known cure once symptoms appear. Keira Glasgow, Director of Health Protection at NSW Health, highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, “We want people to assume that any bat could carry Australian bat lyssavirus, which is a close relative to the rabies virus and very dangerous to humans.”
Although it is exceptionally uncommon for ABLV to infect humans, it is crucial for anyone who is bitten or scratched by a bat to seek immediate medical assistance. Glasgow emphasised that the onset of symptoms marks a critical point, beyond which effective treatment is no longer an option.
The Australian Centre for Disease Control has outlined the symptoms associated with the virus. Initially, individuals may experience flu-like signs such as fatigue, headaches, fever, and reactions at the site of the injury. As the condition progresses, it can lead to more severe symptoms including paralysis, seizures, and delirium. Tragically, the Australian CDC reports that once symptoms manifest, the virus typically causes death within one to two weeks.
The recent increase in bat encounters appears to be linked to food shortages affecting flying-foxes, according to Ingrid Emery, Executive Director of Conservation Programs within the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water. “During food shortage events, flying-foxes typically stay in feed trees during the day instead of returning to their larger colonies. Consequently, members of the community are seeing flying-foxes remaining in their backyard trees during the day,” Emery explained.
Health authorities have reiterated that any individuals who suspect they may have been exposed to ABLV should not wait for symptoms to develop before seeking medical care. Even those with prior rabies vaccinations may require additional doses if exposed to the virus.
Concern among the public continues to grow as residents face an increased likelihood of unintentional encounters with bats. Health officials are emphasising the importance of public awareness and education regarding the risks associated with these animals. The spike in encounters, combined with the potential for transmission of a lethal virus, has created an urgent need for caution.
While the increase in bat sightings may be temporary, experts believe that once normal food supplies are restored, bat encounters will likely return to typical levels. Until then, Glasgow advises that residents should avoid handling bats, even those appearing injured or distressed. “If you see a bat that is injured or in distress, call your local wildlife rescue service and do not touch it,” she cautioned, underlining that only trained, protected, and vaccinated wildlife handlers should interact with these animals.
With the ongoing monitoring of bat populations and public health, it is hopeful that such outbreaks can be managed effectively. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and remain cautious, not only to protect themselves but also to assist in the conservation of bats, which play a vital role in the ecosystem.
As the situation develops, the NSW Health Department continues to keep the public informed through announcements and updates, fostering a proactive approach to safeguarding both human health and wildlife.