A Serotine bat found in a garden in Shorwell has tested positive for a rabies-like virus, the Department for Environment and Rural Affairs (Defra) has confirmed.
The bat was admitted to the Isle of Wight Bat Hospital earlier this month but soon showed signs of aggression and refused to eat or drink. Sensing something wasn’t right, staff placed the bat into isolation and alerted the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
A mainland vet was sent to collect the mammal, which was later that day euthanised at Carisbrooke Veterinary Practice.
Subsequent testing has confirmed the presence of European Bat Lyssavirus 1 (EBLV‑1), a rare virus that causes rabies.
As a precaution, APHA placed immediate restrictions on the Bat Hospital, halting all bat rescue and release activity. These restrictions were lifted just a couple of days later on 18th June, and the facility has now resumed normal operations.
European Bat Lyssavirus 1 is extremely rare in the UK. It was first detected in Britain in 2018, with initial cases confirmed in Dorset.
Donna Street, who has been running the bat hospital for 30 years, says she has handled over 3,000 bats to date, but this is the first to have ever tested positive for rabies.
Thankfully, the APHA has concluded that no one who came into contact with the bat was scratched or bitten.
Anyone who finds a grounded bat is advised not to touch it. Instead, they should cover it to prevent disturbance and call the Bat Conservation Trust for advice on 0345 130 0228. Homeowners should be mindful of animals, such as cats and dogs, getting hold of any bats – dead or alive.
Anyone who suspects they have been licked, bitten or scratched by a bat should contact the National Bat Helpline on 0345 1300 228 and seek immediate medical assistance.
Wow jeez this looks frightening.. at least my quiet rare frogs are OK in the pond….so many people spraying pesticides upon their weeds these days…. I’ve noticed a big drop in my bumble bee’s this year and I’m afraid I fear for the worst rip our beautiful planet our kids will never understand how we all let this happen… and will never swim or paddle in a clean British river or stream…. shame on us….
Don’t tell Robin.
Perhaps all of our politicians have been round these type of bats.