Rabies virus and Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV) belong to a group of viruses called lyssaviruses.
There is no available treatment for rabies once symptoms have started.
A vaccine is available and used to protect against the rabies virus and other lyssaviruses (including ABLV).
If you suspect you have been exposed to rabies or ABLV seek medical attention immediately
Rabies is spread from infected animals to people through bites or scratches. It can also be spread by being exposed to infected animals’ saliva through the eyes, nose or mouth.
Only mammals can be infected. Overseas, dogs are the main transmitter of rabies. Other animals that transmit rabies overseas include bats, monkeys, foxes, cats, raccoons, skunks, jackals and mongooses.
In Australia, evidence of ABLV infection has been found in various species of flying foxes/fruit bats and insect-eating micro bats. It is assumed that any bat in Australia could potentially carry ABLV. The behaviour or appearance of a bat is not an accurate guide as to whether it is carrying the virus.
Early symptoms of rabies are flu-like, including a headache, fever and fatigue.
Once symptoms start, illness progresses rapidly, causing paralysis, delirium and convulsion (seizures). Death can occur within a week or two of the onset of illness.
There is a wide variability in the time it takes for symptoms to appear following exposure to an infected animal e.g. dog, cat (from several days to several years).
Symptoms of rabies can take time to appear following exposure to an infected animal. Some people who are infected can have symptoms within days, while other people may not have any signs of infection for several years.
Lyssaviruses can have serious complications including death. These viruses affect the central nervous system and are usually fatal.
There is no treatment available after symptoms of rabies have started.
There is a vaccine available which is used to protect against the rabies virus and other lyssaviruses (including ABLV).
Please see your health provider at least 6 weeks before you travel to a high risk region to ensure you have sufficient time to be protected before your travel.
A Periodic vaccine booster doses may also be required, for detailed information speak to a health professional.
