Man Dies After Bat Bite Due to Rabies-Like Virus Infection

A man in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, has died after contracting a rare virus known as Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV). This virus is closely related to rabies and can spread through bites or scratches from bats.

Incident Details

According to health authorities, the man, believed to be in his 50s, was bitten by a bat several months ago. He initially received medical care but began to experience severe symptoms later.

He developed fever, fatigue, muscle pain, and neurological issues, which later progressed to paralysis, delirium, and ultimately death.

This is the fourth recorded case of ABLV infection in Australia since the virus was first identified in 1996 and the first-ever case in NSW.

What Is Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV)?

ABLV is a virus that is very similar to rabies. It is found in bats in Australia, although only a small percentage of bats carry the virus.It can be transmitted to humans through:

• Bat bites
• Bat scratches
• Exposure of bat saliva to open wounds, eyes, or mouth

ABLV infection is extremely serious. There is no effectiive treatment once symptoms appear, and all known human cases of ABLV infection in Australia have resulted in death.

Prevention Measures

Health authorities strongly advise the public not to touch or handle bats, especially injured or sick ones.If someone is biiten or scratched by a bat:

• Immediately wash the wound withsoap and water for at least 15 minutes.
• Apply an antiseptic if available.
• Seek medical care urgently to receive rabies vaccination and rabies immunoglobulin.

Health Advisory

• Never handle bats without proper protective gear.
• Contact wildlife rescue authorities if you see an injured or sick bat.
• While ABLV cases are rare, the risk remains serious.

This tragic case serves as a reminder that deadly viruses like rabies and ABLV remain serious threats, even if they are rare. Quick action and prevention are the best protections against infection.

This article is written based on publicly available information from credible and verified news sources, including The Guardian Australia,The Australian,Daily Telegraph Australia