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Potential exposure to Australian bat lyssavirus, Queensland, 1996-1999
B J McCall1, J H Epstein, A S Neill
1Brisbane Southside Public Health Unit, Cooper's Plains, Queensland, Australia. mccallb@health.qld.gov.au
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|May 29, 2000
Summary
Australian bat lyssavirus (ABL) poses a risk, with 6% of bats testing positive. Public education on bat handling risks is crucial to prevent severe outcomes and reduce the need for costly post-exposure prophylaxis.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Public Health
- Virology
Background:
- Australian bat lyssavirus (ABL) has caused two human deaths since 1996.
- Understanding exposure routes and prevalence is vital for public safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the epidemiology of potential Australian bat lyssavirus exposure in Queensland.
- To determine the prevalence of ABL in local bat populations.
Main Methods:
- Data collected from 205 individuals reporting potential ABL exposure to a public health unit.
- Analysis of exposure sources including animal handlers, family members, and community contacts.
- Laboratory testing (fluorescent antibody test) of 366 bats for Lyssavirus presence.
Main Results:
- The study identified various sources of potential ABL exposure, with volunteer animal handlers (39%) and community members (31%) being significant groups.
- A 6% prevalence of Lyssavirus was detected in tested bats.
- The majority of individuals reporting exposure were adults from specific regions of Queensland.
Conclusions:
- Educating bat handlers and the public about the risks associated with handling Australian bats is essential.
- Public awareness campaigns can help reduce potential ABL exposures and the subsequent need for post-exposure prophylaxis.
- Implementing preventative measures can mitigate the severe consequences of ABL infection.