Introduction to ABLV for veterinarians

Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV) is a virus endemic in Australian bats. It causes an invariably fatal encephalitis (infection and inflammation of the brain) in bats, humans and other animals.

All persons in Queensland, including veterinarians, have obligations to report the presence of ABLV and to meet their general biosecurity obligation under the Biosecurity Act 2014. Veterinarians in Queensland also have responsibilities under the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1936 and Work Health and Safety Act 2011.

As a veterinarian, you are likely to be asked for advice about bats, pets and ABLV.

This online guide gives an overview of the information available to assist veterinarians to safely manage incidents involving contact between domestic animals and bats. This information includes a complete, downloadable document and a number of short guides addressing common queries.