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Australian Bat Lyssa Virus

Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABL) was first identified in 1996, and has been found in several species of flying foxes, fruit bats and insectivorous bats in Australia. Lyssavirus is closely related to, but is distinct from, the classic rabies virus.

Two human deaths have been reported due to this virus. In both cases, death occurred as a result of encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) presenting with variable symptoms of:

• fever and general lethargy
• headache
• muscle weakness and numbness
• confusion and disorientation
• convulsions / fits
• loss of consciousness

Bat lyssavirus is transmitted to humans from saliva of the bat via bites or scratches. It is not thought that the virus is spread through casual contact with bats.

The Australian bat lyssavirus is closely related to the classic rabies virus and may be prevented by vaccination against rabies.

Prevention
Assuming that ALL Australian bats have the potential to carry lyssavirus, the best
protection against being exposed to the virus is to avoid handling bats.

If you must handle bats, observe these safety precautions.
Handling bats

• Give some thought to whether you really do need to handle the animal.
• There may be alternatives such as simply covering a sick or injured animal.
• If you must handle a bat, make every effort to avoid being bitten or scratched.

Vaccination

• Get vaccinated if you are occupationally or recreationally exposed to bats.
• A safe vaccine is available from your doctor. It requires a course of injections over a month.

Protective clothing

• Wear puncture-proof gloves, long sleeves, protective glasses and mask.
• Cover existing cuts, scratches and sores.

First Aid
If bitten or scratched by any Australian bat
Proper cleansing of the wound is regarded as the single most effective measure for reducing transmission of lyssaviruses.

• Immediately wash the wound thoroughly (eg. for approximately 5 minutes) with soap and water.
• If available, an iodine-based antiseptic should be applied after washing.
• In all cases seek medical advice immediately even if prior vaccination
• Where possible AND without placing any person at risk of exposure, the bat should be kept (alive if possible) to allow testing for presence of the virus

Post Exposure Treatment
(If you are bitten or scratched by a bat, or saliva in your eyes, nose or mouth)

• After the wound or exposure site has been thoroughly cleansed, immediately seek medical advice, If never vaccinated against rabies, a series of injections is required
• 1 dose of rabies immunoglobulin,
• 5 doses of rabies vaccine given over a period of a month.
• If previously vaccinated against rabies, a booster doses may be needed
• 2 doses of vaccine over 3 days.