November 12, 2020
Gympie Regional Council has reminded residents not to touch injured or dead flying foxes.
Flying foxes are potential carriers of the Australian Bat Lyssavirus and if they scratch or bite a person, they could infect them with the virus.
While actual human cases are low – there have only been three cases in Australia in the last 24 years – it’s important to be cautious as it can be deadly.
Cr Bruce Devereaux said Gympie currently has one of the largest flying fox colonies in Queensland.
“Whether we like it or not, flying foxes are loving the Gympie region right now,” he said.
“And this means that, while people are out and about, the chances of encountering an injured or dead flying fox is a little higher than normal,” he said.
Queensland Health advises that if you (or your child) come across a bat or flying fox:
1. Do not touch it, even if it seems to be dead.
2. If it seems sick, injured or stuck, contact a wildlife rescue organisation or the RSPCA on 1300-264-625.
If you or someone you know has been bitten or scratched, or bat saliva has entered your eye, nose or mouth:
1. Wash the affected area gently and thoroughly with soap and water for at least five minutes
2. Apply an antiseptic (alcohol-based or iodine-based) to the area of the scratch or bite
3. Immediately contact medical services. A vaccine is available. While it is rare to become infected from a bat or flying fox, it can be fatal.
