With summer heat and storm season underway Queensland Health is reminding people not to touch distressed or dead bats they may come across under any circumstances.
Bats can carry Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV), a virus closely related to rabies and while human infection is rare, it is almost always fatal once symptoms develop.
The ABC reports there have been 17 cases of potential exposure to bats recorded at the Townsville Hospital and Health Unit this year.
Very hot temperatures or a mix of heat and humidity can cause bats to become heat-stressed and fall to the ground.
Storms can also affect bat behaviour – strong winds and severe weather can cause bats to fall from trees or seek shelter closer to the ground, increasing the chance of being found by people.
Queensland Health advises people to never attempt to rescue or handle a distressed or dead bat and instead call a trained wildlife rescuer.
For advice and information on disposing of dead bats, visit the Queensland Government environment, land and water website
Report injured or distressed bats to:
RSPCA: 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625)
Department of Environment and Science: 1300 130 372
Local wildlife care groups and trained bat rescuers
For medical advice on bites and exposure:
Call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84). This helpline provides 24/7 advice from registered nurses for non-emergency health concerns, helping you decide if you need to see a doctor, visit a pharmacy, or go to an emergency department.
Contact your local Public Health Unit
