Health authorities are warning the community not to handle distressed or dead bats this summer.
Queensland Health says hot temperatures or a mix of heat and humidity can cause bats to become heat-stressed and fall to the ground.
Storms can also affect bat behaviour as strong winds and severe weather can cause bats to fall from trees or seek shelter closer to the ground, increasing the chance of being found by people.
Queensland Health advises people to never attempt to rescue or handle a distressed or dead bat and instead call a trained wildlife rescuer.
Chief Health Officer Dr Catherine McDougall said Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV) can be transmitted to humans through bites, scratches or saliva, and the safest approach is to avoid any contact with bats.
“All bats have the potential to carry ABLV and while transmission to humans is rare, unfortunately, once symptoms appear, there is no known effective treatment,” she said.
“The safest thing Queenslanders can do is assume any bat they come across could be carrying ABLV and avoid any contact.
“Even if the bat looks dead, do not touch it.”
There have been 21 cases of potential ABLV exposure in the Mackay Hospital and Health Service this year.
If you do see a bat in need of help, call the RSPCA, local wildlife carers or Queensland’s Bat Conservation and Rescue team.
If you are bitten, scratched, or have contact with bat saliva, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes, before applying an antiseptic and seeking medical care as soon as possible.
