Are people at risk from diseases spread by flying-foxes such as the Lyssavirus?
The risk of a person catching any disease from a flying-fox is minimal. Although large numbers of flying-foxes have roosted at the Royal Botanic Garden for almost 20 years there has never been any reported serious injuries or illnesses caused by these flying-foxes. However, the Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABL) is deadly to humans as well as bats, so it is important to take precautions. This disease is carried by a very small proportion of the flying-fox population; it is usually transmitted to humans via bites or scratches, which provide direct access of the virus in saliva to exposed tissue. Flying-foxes are generally quite docile animals. The best precaution is to make no attempt at handling a flying-fox unless you are appropriately trained and vaccinated. If you find one in distress, call WIRES 13 000 WIRES or 1300 094 737 or Sydney Wildlife 02 9413 4300.
