Large bat colonies near Dalkieth Avenue in Lake Albert have been reported and recent studies suggest the animals could bear the deadly lyssavirus infection. 

NSW Health research has already uncovered four cases of bats carrying the lyssavirus infection in 2017 and two dead bats found in the Riverina this year are suspected to have been carriers.

CSU senior lecturer and bat expert Dr Andrew Peters told The Daily Advertiser it was difficult to identify lyssavirus carriers.

“We know that the lyssavirus a form of rabies and this type is specifically seen in bats but the problem is that it’s not always easy to tell which bats are carriers,” he said.

“Some healthy bats carry it whereas some show typical aggresion or are more passive carriers – we can’t tell just by looking at it.”

In a public warning, communicable diseases branch director Dr Vicky Sheppeard said more than 140 people across NSW had been treated for bat scratches and bites this year .

“Lyssavirus infection can result in a rabies-like illness which is very serious and, if not prevented, is fatal,” Dr Sheppeard said.

“During the bat birthing season in October and November, we find people are more likely to come in contact with bats, as young and miscarried pups may be on the ground, prompting people to pick them up or attempt to rescue them.

Dr Peters said grey-headed flying foxes would be prevalent at this time of year – especially around the Murrumbidgee River – and urged residents to keep their distance and be mindful of the environmental role played by flying foxes and microbats in the region.

“Just leave the bats alone  – they’re moving through to other regions and they are vital in pollinating native flora,” he said.

“If someone is bitten or scratched by any type of bat they should thoroughly clean the wound for at least five minutes with soap and water immediately, apply an antiseptic such as Betadine and seek urgent medical advice,” Dr Sheppeard added.

A spokesperson for the NSW Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service (WIRES) said Wagga residents should keep their distance but advised homeowners with fruit-bearing trees to be mindful of animal presence and netting.

“Flying-foxes are frequently rescued after being caught and injured in fruit netting or on barbed wire,” the spokesperson said.

“If you can poke your finger through the holes in netting then it is not suitable for wildlife.

“(However) If you see a sick, injured or orphaned flying-fox or bat please keep your distance, do not touch it or try to contain it … no risks should be taken.”