An Australian man has tragically died after contracting a rare and deadly rabies-like virus transmitted through a bat bite, health authorities confirmed on Thursday.
The man, who was based in Queensland, reportedly came into contact with a bat and sustained a bite. He later developed symptoms linked to the Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV), a viral infection that closely resembles rabies and is known to be almost always fatal once symptoms appear.
According to Queensland Health, this marks only the fourth known human fatality from ABLV in the country since the virus was first identified in 1996. The victim was not treated with post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which is considered critical after any potential exposure to infected bats.
Authorities have urged the public to never handle bats directly and to seek urgent medical attention if bitten or scratched, regardless of the severity.
“Only specially trained wildlife handlers should deal with injured or distressed bats,” said a Queensland Health spokesperson. “Anyone exposed should immediately wash the wound and seek medical advice for the rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin treatment.”
The case has renewed public health warnings about avoiding direct contact with bats and reinforcing the need for swift response in the event of any bite or scratch.
ABLV can be carried by both fruit bats and flying foxes, and once symptoms present—such as fever, confusion, and paralysis—the disease is nearly always fatal.
Queensland Health has extended condolences to the victim’s family and is working to raise awareness to prevent similar cases in the future.
Article written by:
Hudaa Ahmed
Journalist at Radio Al Ansaar
