Australia Warns Residents to Avoid Bats as Bites and Scratches Rise

A shortage of natural food is bringing Australia's flying foxes into closer contact with people, and health officials are concerned. Some bats have been lingering in backyard trees during daylight hours, instead of returning to their usual colonies.

Now, an increase in bat bites and scratches has prompted a NSW Health warning about a potentially deadly infection. Although human infections are extremely rare, authorities are urging residents to keep their distance from bats, even if the animals appear injured or need help.

Why Are More Bats Appearing Near Homes?

NSW Health assessed 43 people for bat bites or scratches between September 28th and October 10th. During the same period in 2025, only 10 exposures were reported.

Wildlife officials believe food shortages are contributing to the increase in encounters. When their usual food sources become scarce, flying foxes may remain in trees near homes throughout the day, increasing the chances that people will approach them.

This bat virus warning comes as officials anticipate more bat activity during Australia's warmer months.

What Is Australian Bat Lyssavirus?

Australian bat lyssavirus is a rare infection carried by bats, including flying foxes. It's closely related to rabies and can spread when an infected bat's saliva enters the body through a bite, scratch, or broken skin.

According to the Australian Centre for Disease Control, the rabies-like virus can also enter through the eyes, nose, or mouth. Early symptoms may resemble the flu, including:

• Fever

• Fatigue

• Headaches 

The illness can go on to cause serious neurological problems, including paralysis and seizures. Once the symptoms develop, there’s no effective treatment, making prevention and immediate medical attention important.

However, the virus is rarely transmitted to humans, and a bat encounter doesn't automatically mean someone has been infected.

What Should You Do If You Come In Contact With a Bat?

Health officials say that anyone bitten or scratched by a bat should seek urgent medical attention, rather than waiting to see whether symptoms develop.

The recommended steps are:

• Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes.

• Apply an antiseptic with antiviral properties, such as povidone-iodine.

• Seek urgent medical care to determine whether preventive treatment is needed.

People who've previously received rabies vaccinations should still seek medical attention, as additional doses may be necessary.

Doctors may recommend rabies vaccination and, for some, rabies immunoglobulin to prevent an infection after exposure.

Leave the Bat Rescues to the Experts

Finding a bat struggling on the ground would make anyone want to help. It’s also flying fox birthing season, which runs through October and November, when young or orphaned bats may end up on the ground and tempt people to pick them up. But, picking it up could put you at risk. Instead, call a trained wildlife rescue organization. Don’t try to handle the animal yourself.

In New South Wales, residents can contact WIRES at 1300 094 737. The message from health officials is straightforward: enjoy watching Australia's remarkable flying foxes from a safe distance, and leave any hands-on assistance to trained and vaccinated wildlife professionals.

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