Coming into summer, bat activity is increasing and three people in the Hunter New England Health area have been treated for bat bites or scratches in the past fortnight.

Public Health physician Dr David Durrheim said bat bites and scratches may result in human infection with the potentially lethal Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABL), which is related to the rabies virus and can be lethal.

“The virus has been found in four species of fruit bats and flying foxes and at least three species of insect-eating bats, so all Australian bats including both the larger flying foxes and the small insect eating bats - are considered to have the potential to transmit lyssavirus,” Dr Durrheim said.

Dr Durrheim said two Australians have died as a result of ABL in the past 10 years following bites or scratches from bats.

“Transmission of the virus from bats to humans is thought to be by a scratch or bite, but it is important to note that living, playing or walking near bat roosting areas does not pose a risk of exposure to ABL,” he said.

“Direct contact with a bat is necessary to be infected.

“The best protection against being exposed to the virus is to avoid handling bats.

“Members of the community should not handle bats or flying foxes.

“Only vaccinated people who have been trained in the care of bats should ever handle bats or flying foxes.

“If you come across an injured bat, contact the nearest wildlife rescuer/carer for assistance.”

If bitten or scratched, immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least five minutes.

If available, an antiseptic with anti-virus action such as povidone-iodine, iodine tincture, aqueous iodine solution or alcohol (ethanol) should be applied after washing.

It is important to immediately contact either your GP or the Public Health Unit, who will determine whether a series of rabies vaccinations is necessary.