Health authorities in New South Wales (NSW) have issued an urgent warning after dozens of people were bitten or scratched by bats over a two-week period. Officials are urging anyone who has had contact with a bat to seek medical care quickly, because the animals can carry a rare virus that can be fatal to humans.
NSW Health reported that 43 people received medical assessments after suffering bat bites or scratches between September 28 and October 10. Most of the incidents occurred in coastal areas, including the Hunter, Mid-North Coast, Northern NSW, and the Central Coast.
The main concern is Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV), a virus closely related to the rabies virus. Although human infections are extremely rare, the disease is deadly once symptoms appear. There is currently no effective treatment for people who develop symptoms of the infection.
Dr. Keira Glasgow, Director of Health Protection at NSW Health, warned residents not to assume that a bat is safe to approach. She emphasized that all bats should be treated with caution because they may carry the virus, even if they look healthy.
Residents who find an injured or struggling bat should contact a local wildlife rescue group for help. They should not try to pick up or rescue the animal themselves. Handling bats should only be done by trained professionals who have the right safety equipment and vaccinations.
Anyone who suffers a bat bite or scratch should wash the wound immediately with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes. They should then apply an antiseptic, such as Betadine. However, these steps alone may not prevent infection. It is vital to seek urgent medical care so a doctor can assess the risk and decide whether further treatment is necessary.
The recent increase in contact between people and bats may be connected to a food shortage in parts of New South Wales. According to the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, food shortages are affecting large areas of the state’s east coast.
Health and wildlife authorities are urging the public to stay away from bats and never touch them, regardless of how healthy or harmless they may seem. Keeping a safe distance can help prevent the spread of serious infections while also protecting the animals from harm.
