Dangers
Lyssavirus
If you find a flying fox, contact the QPWS or RSPCA as only registered and trained bat carers who are vaccinated against lyssavirus can care for flying foxes or insectivorous bats. If you are bitten or scratched by a bat you should seek immediate medical attention.
Queensland Health states there are seven types of lyssavirus recognized throughout the world, of which six are known to exist in bats. The best known type of lyssavrius is rabies. A new lyssavirus, Australian Bat Lyssavirus, has been found in four species of megachiroptera (fruit bats/flying foxes) and at least three species of microchiroptera (insectivorous bat). It is safest to assume that all Australian bats have the potential to transmit this lyssavirus to humans.
Q Fever
Q Fever is caused by the micro-organism Coxiella burnetii which is carried by domestic livestock and macropods.
Infected animals show little apparent signs of illness. Infection is transmitted by contact with animal faeces, urine, blood and pregnancy fluids, with the organism most plentiful in the uterus and mammary glands of pregnant animals. Inhaling dust from infected premises may also lead to infection.
In humans, Q Fever causes a sudden, severe illness with fever, chills and muscle pains similar to influenza. Antibiotics are the treatment of choice and recovery is usually speedy. If you develop flu-like symptoms, contact a doctor and let him or her know you may have had contact with the organism. Illness usually develops within two or three weeks of exposure.
Strict hygiene is the key to preventing infection. If animals are kept confined, avoid inhaling dust. Make good personal hygiene a habit - cover cuts and scratches and wash your hands after handling animals. Regularly disinfect or dispose of bedding used by macropods.
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Last updated: 22 December 2004