Outbreak of Flying-fox Paralysis Syndrome Reported in Redlands Coast: What Residents Need to Know
redland City Council has issued an urgent advisory to residents of Redlands Coast regarding a reported outbreak of Flying-fox Paralysis Syndrome (FFPS).This condition has been identified in flying-foxes across several locations in south-east Queensland, prompting immediate action to protect both wildlife and the community.
Identifying Flying-fox Paralysis Syndrome
Flying-foxes affected by FFPS exhibit clear symptoms that can definitely help residents identify the condition. These include:
- A protruding tongue
- Inability to swallow or blink
- weepy eyes
- Difficulty breathing
While some affected flying-foxes may still be able to climb,they are unable to fly. In severe cases, the animals might potentially be found on the ground, unable to perform basic functions like blinking or swallowing.
How to Respond if You Encounter an Affected flying-fox
If you come across a flying-fox displaying these symptoms, it is crucial to take the following steps:
- Do not handle or approach the animal. The flying-fox will already be stressed or in shock, and handling it could exacerbate the situation.
- Document the encounter. Note the location of the animal and, if it is safe to do so, take photos or videos to assist in identification.
- Contact a specialist. Reach out to Bat Conservation and Rescue Qld at 0488 288 134. Please be patient, as these organizations are currently overwhelmed managing the outbreak. They will respond as quickly as possible.
Only trained and vaccinated wildlife rehabilitators, equipped with appropriate protective gear, should handle flying-foxes. This precaution is essential to prevent any potential risks to human health.
Understanding the risks: Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV)
While it is important to be cautious, it is worth noting that only a very small percentage (less than 1%) of flying-foxes carry Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV), a disease similar to rabies.ABLV can only be transmitted to humans through bites, scratches, or contact with saliva in an open wound from an infected bat. This is why handling flying-foxes is strongly discouraged. ABLV is not the same virus as FFPS, and the key message remains: No touch, no risk.
Supporting Wildlife and communities
Redland City Council is actively supporting both wildlife and communities affected by this outbreak. For more information on how to coexist with flying-foxes and how Council is addressing the issue, visit Council’s website.
By working together, residents can help ensure that affected flying-foxes receive the care they need while staying safe and informed.
For immediate assistance, contact Bat Conservation and Rescue Qld at 0488 288 134.
### Interview: Understanding the Flying-fox Paralysis Syndrome Outbreak in Redlands Coast
**Introduction:**
The recent outbreak of Flying-fox Paralysis Syndrome (FFPS) in Redlands coast has raised concerns among residents and wildlife experts alike. Redland City Council has issued an urgent advisory to inform the community about this condition, which has been identified in flying-foxes across several locations in south-east Queensland. To help residents better understand the situation and how to respond,we sat down with Dr. Emily Carter, a wildlife specialist and expert on bat conservation, for an in-depth discussion.
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#### **Understanding the Outbreak**
**Senior Editor:** Dr. Carter, thank you for joining us today. Can you start by explaining what Flying-fox Paralysis Syndrome (FFPS) is and how it affects flying-foxes?
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me. FFPS is a condition that affects flying-foxes, causing them to experience paralysis and othre distressing symptoms.The syndrome is characterized by a protruding tongue, difficulty swallowing or blinking, weepy eyes, and even trouble breathing.In severe cases, the animals might potentially be found on the ground, unable to perform basic functions like flying or climbing.
**Senior Editor:** How widespread is this outbreak, and why is it causing such concern?
**Dr. Carter:** The outbreak has been reported across several locations in south-east queensland,which is a meaningful area for flying-foxes. The condition is alarming because it affects the animals’ ability to survive, and it also poses challenges for the community as they coexist with these wildlife populations.
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#### **Identifying FFPS in Flying-foxes**
**Senior Editor:** What are the key symptoms that residents should look out for if they suspect a flying-fox is affected by FFPS?
**Dr.Carter:** The symptoms are quite distinct. Residents should watch for a protruding tongue, an inability to swallow or blink, weepy eyes, and difficulty breathing. Some affected flying-foxes may still be able to climb but will be unable to fly.If you see a flying-fox on the ground showing these signs, it’s a clear indication that something is wrong.
**Senior Editor:** How can residents distinguish FFPS from other conditions that might affect flying-foxes?
**Dr. Carter:** FFPS is unique in its presentation.Unlike other conditions,such as Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV),which affects a small percentage of flying-foxes,FFPS causes immediate paralysis and visible distress. ABLV,for example,is more closely associated with aggressive behavior in bats,whereas FFPS is about physical incapacitation.
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#### **How Residents Should Respond**
**Senior Editor:** If a resident encounters a flying-fox displaying these symptoms, what should they do?
**Dr. Carter:** The most significant thing is to avoid handling or approaching the animal. The flying-fox will already be stressed or in shock, and handling it could worsen the situation. Rather, residents should document the encounter by noting the location and, if safe, taking photos or videos. Then,they should contact a specialist association like Bat Conservation and Rescue Qld at 0488 288 134.
**Senior Editor:** Why is it so critical to avoid handling the animals?
**Dr.Carter:** Handling flying-foxes without proper training and protective gear can be dangerous. While the risk of contracting Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV) is low, it’s still present. ABLV is transmitted through bites, scratches, or contact with saliva in an open wound. The key message is: no touch, no risk.
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#### **The Role of Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV)**
**Senior Editor:** Can you clarify the relationship between FFPS and Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV)? are they connected, or are they separate conditions?
**Dr. carter:** FFPS and ABLV are separate conditions.FFPS is a neurological syndrome causing paralysis,while ABLV is a virus similar to rabies that affects a very small percentage of flying-foxes.ABLV is only transmitted to humans through direct contact, such as bites or scratches. It’s important to note that FFPS dose not increase the risk of ABLV transmission.
**Senior Editor:** So, the primary concern for residents is to avoid handling the animals, irrespective of whether they have FFPS or ABLV?
**Dr. Carter:** Exactly. The safest approach is to observe from a distance, document the encounter, and contact trained professionals who can handle the situation safely.
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#### **Supporting Wildlife and the Community**
**Senior Editor:** How is Redland City Council supporting both wildlife and the community during this outbreak?
**Dr.Carter:** Redland City Council is taking a proactive approach by issuing advisories, providing information on how to coexist with flying-foxes, and supporting specialist organizations like Bat Conservation and Rescue Qld. They’re also working to ensure that residents stay informed and safe while helping affected wildlife receive the care they need.
**Senior Editor:** What can residents do to help during this challenging time?
**Dr. Carter:** Residents can play a crucial role by staying informed, following the guidelines provided by Council, and supporting wildlife rescue organizations. By working together, we can ensure that both the community and the flying-foxes are protected.
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**Conclusion:**
**Senior Editor:** Dr. Carter, thank you for sharing your expertise and helping us better understand the Flying-fox Paralysis Syndrome outbreak. Your insights will be invaluable for residents of Redlands Coast as they navigate this situation.
**Dr. Carter:** It’s my pleasure. I hope this conversation helps raise awareness and encourages residents to take the necessary precautions while supporting our wildlife.
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**For immediate assistance, contact Bat Conservation and Rescue Qld at 0488 288 134.**
