Australian Bat Lyssavirus Claims NSW Man’s Life

A man from Northern New South Wales has tragically died after contracting Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV) from a bat bite. This marks the first confirmed case of the virus in the state.

Fatal Infection Confirmed

News of the man’s death, which occurred last Thursday, was released by **NSW Health** on Wednesday, July 2nd. The man, who was in his 50s, had sought medical attention after being bitten by a bat some months prior.

Once symptoms of lyssavirus appear, **NSW Health** has stated that there is no effective treatment. Health officials are currently investigating if any other exposures or factors contributed to the man contracting the virus.

Understanding Lyssavirus

**NSW Health** describes lyssavirus as a “rabies-like infection” that severely impacts the central nervous system. This marks the fourth recorded case of lyssavirus in Australia since 1996.

“Rabies virus and Australian bat lyssavirus ABLV belong to a group of viruses called lyssaviruses,” according to the **NSW Heath** website.

These viruses transmit through bites from infected animals, causing an illness known as rabies. While closely related to rabies, ABLV is specific to Australia and is transmitted from bats to humans.

Since ABLV was first identified in 1996, there have been only four cases of human infection. Three of these infections occurred in Queensland, while the most recent case occurred in NSW, and all resulted from bites or scratches inflicted by bats.

Transmission and Symptoms

ABLV spreads through bites or scratches from infected animals. Transmission can also occur if infected saliva comes into contact with a person’s eyes, nose, or mouth. Only mammals are susceptible to infection.

Initial symptoms resemble the flu, including headache, fever, and fatigue, according to **NSW Health**. The illness rapidly progresses to paralysis, delirium, convulsions, and ultimately, death, usually within one to two weeks.

The time it takes for symptoms to appear can vary widely, ranging from days to years after exposure, as demonstrated by both rabies and ABLV cases.

Health Advice

Given the risk, it’s important to avoid handling bats. If bitten or scratched, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least five minutes, apply an antiseptic, and seek immediate medical attention (NSW Health).

Privacy Considerations

The CV Independent contacted the Northern NSW Local Health District and **NSW Health** seeking confirmation of whether the man was from the Clarence Valley or whether the bat bite occurred in the Clarence Valley. However, due to privacy reasons, this information could not be disclosed.