10/08/2025
We are heartbroken to learn that a member of our Northern Rivers community has passed away after contracting Lyssavirus, & send our deepest condolences to his family & friends ♥️
We feel it’s important to dispel some myths about bats & Lyssavirus, to keep our community (human & wildlife) safe:
Myth 1. Lyssavirus is rabies:
🦠 Lyssavirus refers to a group of viruses that include Rabies & Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV). Rabies is not present in Australia, but ABLV is. Symptoms and treatment for both are very similar.
Myth 2. All bats carry ABLV:
Less than 1% of Australian bats are estimated to carry ABLV, but the only way to test for the virus is via a brain sample from a deceased bat. It is therefore vital that any bat bite or scratch be considered potentially infected & immediate action is taken⚠️.
Myth 3. Bats are dirty, disease-ridden pests:
Flying foxes are one of Australia’s most vital pollinators- travelling up to 50km in a single night & assisting in the pollination of countless plant species. Without flying foxes, there would be no trees for other species such as owls & koalas 🐨. Flying foxes are affectionate, incredible parents, & very hygienic- cleaning themselves frequently 🧼.
Microbats are a 🦟 mosquito-magnet’s best friend- one microbat can eat half its bodyweight in insects in a single night (that’s 1000+ mosquitos/night)! They also live in colonies & prefer the quiet, private life 🏕️.
If you find an injured or unwell bat, 🛑DO NOT TOUCH IT❌. Keep all people & pets away & immediately call your local wildlife rescue organisation. A trained, vaccinated carer will be dispatched to safely rescue the bat & take it to a wildlife hospital 🏥.
‼️ ABLV is LETHAL if not attended to properly & immediately. There is NO CURE for ABLV. If a person or pet is bitten or scratched, they must seek immediate medical care. A doctor or vet will advise on the most appropriate course of post-exposure treatment based on the situation.
🦇Australia’s bats are under threat from habitat destruction, persecution & forced dispersal, human & pet conflicts, pollution & entanglement. It is vital that we protect these precious animals & replace fear with appreciation 🫶🏼.
