00:00Australian bat Lissavirus is an incredibly rare disease.
00:06This is the first known case in New South Wales.
00:09Authorities from New South Wales Health told us that the man sought medical treatment and received it some months ago after he was bitten by a bat.
00:17However, he recently developed the symptoms of Lissavirus.
00:21We were advised by New South Wales Health yesterday that he was in a very serious condition
00:26and authorities confirmed today he has died as a result of that disease.
00:31Now, Lissavirus is a rabies-like disease which attacks the central nervous system.
00:37It is a fatal condition with no known cure, only preventative treatments.
00:43So, wildlife carers do typically receive a vaccine if they're working with bats
00:49and authorities have reminded the public that this is why it is so important
00:54to never touch a bat that you see out in the wild
00:58even if you believe it might need some sort of assistance or medical attention.
01:02The best thing to do is contact a qualified wildlife carer
01:07that's likely to have the appropriate treatment and protection from this incredibly serious condition.
01:13Authorities also say that if you do receive a bite or scratch from a bat,
01:19the best thing to do is wash the wound straight away,
01:23apply an antiseptic such as betadine and seek urgent medical treatment.
01:29In the meantime, health authorities have expressed their condolences
