A bat found in a garden on the Isle of Wight has tested positive for a rare rabies-like virus — sparking public concern about possible health risks and raising important questions for Ireland.
The bat, discovered in May, was infected with European Bat Lyssavirus Type 2 (EBLV-2) — a virus in the same family as classical rabies. While cases in the UK are exceptionally rare, the news serves as a timely reminder of the risks that can come with contact with wild or sick animals — even on our doorstep.
What is European Bat Lyssavirus (EBLV-2)?
EBLV-2 is a rabies-related virus carried by certain species of bats. It can, in very rare cases, be transmitted to humans — usually through bites, scratches, or exposure to bat saliva or other bodily fluids.
The virus causes rabies-like neurological symptoms and is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear. In the UK, the only known human fatality occurred in 2002, when a Scottish bat handler sadly died after contracting EBLV-2.
Could It Spread to Ireland?
Although the case was identified in England, there is real potential for this virus to appear in Ireland, especially as bats are protected species found across the country. Bats do not respect borders, and Ireland shares several migratory bat species with the UK.
Even though the current public health risk remains low, vigilance is vital, particularly among individuals who might come into direct contact with bats — such as vets, wildlife workers, pest control professionals, and members of the public who find injured animals.
Are We Prepared in Ireland?
Surprisingly, veterinary students in Ireland are not routinely offered rabies vaccination as part of their training, despite the fact that any sick or injured animal — including bats — is likely to end up in a veterinary clinic.
This raises serious concerns about occupational safety and the adequacy of current protective measures. Given that Ireland is currently rabies-free, any imported case or local emergence of EBLV could have serious consequences if veterinary professionals or the public are not protected.
What To Do If You Encounter a Sick or Injured Bat
If you come across a bat that appears sick, injured, or is behaving unusually:
- Do not touch the bat with bare hands. Avoid any physical contact.
- Call a wildlife expert or local animal rescue organisation for advice and assistance.
- If you must handle the bat (e.g. to move it from danger), always wear thick gloves and use a container to scoop it up safely.
- If bitten or scratched, wash the wound immediately with soap and water for at least 15 minutes and seek urgent medical advice — post-exposure rabies vaccination may be required.
Should You Be Concerned?
The general public is at extremely low risk, but awareness is key. People who are more likely to come into contact with bats — such as cavers, pest control workers, and vets — should strongly consider getting vaccinated against rabies.
Authorities continue to stress that while EBLV is rare, early precaution and informed handling are the best tools for prevention.
Key Takeaways
- A rare rabies-like virus (EBLV-2) has been confirmed in a bat on the Isle of Wight.
- Human cases are extremely rare, but fatal when symptoms develop.
- The virus could potentially spread to Ireland, especially through shared bat species.
- Vet students in Ireland are not routinely vaccinated against rabies — a policy that may warrant review.
- Never touch a bat with bare hands; call a professional if you find a sick or injured one.
- Post-exposure vaccines are effective if given quickly after contact with infected animals.
Final Thought
As Ireland shares both ecological and migratory links with the UK, the emergence of EBLV-2 should act as a wake-up call. Better awareness, updated training protocols, and appropriate vaccination for at-risk groups could save lives. While the risk is low, the consequences of inaction could be severe.
Stay informed. Stay protected. And when in doubt — call a professional.