West Moreton Health is reminding members of the public not to touch or pick up bats and flying foxes under any circumstances.
The animals carry bacteria and viruses that can be harmful to humans, including the Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV).
Lyssavirus is a serious and fatal virus in humans that attacks the nervous system, similar to rabies.
West Moreton Health Public Health physician Dr David Harley said 99 per cent of bat related health issues occurred when people touched or handled bats.
“The only people who should handle bats and flying foxes are trained handlers who are vaccinated and have appropriate protective equipment,” Dr Harley said.
“It is very important people steer clear of these animals for their own safety, even if the animals appear sick, injured or trapped.
“If you find a bat stuck on a fence, in bird netting or on the ground, do not touch it. Contact the RSPCA or Bat Conservation and Rescue Queensland (BCRQ).”
In the event someone is bitten or scratched by a bat, or exposed to bat saliva through the eyes, nose, or mouth, follow the steps below:
- Do not scrub the wound. Instead, wash the wound gently and thoroughly for five minutes with soap and water.
- If available, apply an antiseptic with anti-virus action such as povidone-iodine, iodine tincture, aqueous iodine solution or alcohol (ethanol).
- If bat saliva has got in the eyes, nose or mouth, flush the area thoroughly with water.
- Contact a doctor, 13HEALTH, your local Public Health Unit or the nearest hospital immediately to start post-exposure treatment.
- Contact the RSPCA hotline on 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625), BCRQ on 0488 228 134 or a wildlife carer to collect the bat for testing, if it is available.
More information on ABLV is available here: Australian bat lyssavirus | Communicable disease control guidance (health.qld.gov.au)