Rabies is a severe viral disease that affects the central nervous system of warm-blooded animals, including humans. Once symptoms manifest, the disease is almost always fatal. Bats are recognized as significant carriers of the rabies virus in many parts of the world, particularly in the Americas where they are a primary source of human rabies cases.
How Rabies Affects Bat Flight
Rabid bats can fly, but their flight is often impaired as the rabies virus travels along nerve pathways to the brain, causing inflammation and neurological dysfunction in their central nervous system. This damage affects the bat’s coordination and behavior.
Affected bats may exhibit erratic flight patterns, appearing disoriented or having difficulty flying in a straight line. They might also be observed flying during unusual times, such as broad daylight. While a bat flying during the day can be a sign of rabies, it is not definitive, as other factors could be at play.
The impairment can progress to a point where the bat struggles to fly at all, sometimes resulting in them being found on the ground. Even with impaired flight, rabid bats can still move and potentially interact with other animals or humans. Therefore, caution is always necessary when encountering a bat, regardless of its apparent condition.
Identifying and Responding to Bats
Beyond flight issues, other observable signs may indicate a bat has rabies, though only laboratory testing can confirm the diagnosis. Rabid bats may be found on the ground, unable to fly, disoriented, or exhibiting unusual behaviors such as paralysis or aggression.
If a bat is encountered, especially if it is indoors or appears sick, it is important to avoid direct contact. Never attempt to handle a bat with bare hands, as their small teeth can inflict bites that may go unnoticed.
If a bat is found in a living space, particularly with a sleeping person, an unattended child, or anyone unable to reliably confirm they were not bitten, it is important to contact local animal control or public health officials. These authorities can safely capture the bat for rabies testing and provide guidance on potential exposure.
If a bite or scratch occurs, or if saliva from a bat comes into contact with an open wound or mucous membranes, thoroughly wash the area with soap and water and seek immediate medical attention. Post-exposure prophylaxis, including vaccinations and sometimes immune globulin, can effectively prevent rabies if administered promptly after exposure.