Bats and Public Health: Fact vs Fiction

How much of a risk do bats really pose to your household?

In spite of their service to the planet, bats can’t seem to shake their bad reputation. The recent COVID pandemic certainly did not help, with many theories attributing the origin of the virus to bats.

So how dangerous are these winged mammals to human health? Though the risk of death is now rare thanks to advances in post rabies treatment, the truth is that when bats come into close contact with humans, they can pose health risks, particularly through the transmission of rabies and other diseases. It is a good idea to understand the risks associated with bats and in this blog, we’ll explore the health concerns associated with bats, when to seek medical attention after an encounter, and how Rentokil Initial helps manage bat-related risks.

Bats and Rabies

Rabies is one of the most well-known diseases associated with bats even though deaths caused by rabies have dropped significantly. It is a viral infection that affects the central nervous system and can be fatal to humans and animals. It is important to note however, that not all bats carry rabies, but those that do can be dangerous.

Abnormal behavior in bats could be a sign of rabies but not all rabid acts behave abnormally. Flying around during daylight hours for an extended period, being grounded (not flying) or attempting to bite or scratch are classified as abnormal behavior in bats.

Rabies is spread through the saliva of an infected animal, typically via bites, scratches or contact with open wounds or the eyes, nose and mouth. Since bat teeth are very small and sharp, their bites could go unnoticed, especially if they occur while a person is sleeping. For this reason, it is crucial to seek medical attention if you find a bat in your bedroom or other enclosed space where contact could have occurred.

Other Health Risks from Bats

In addition to rabies, bats may carry other pathogens that may affect human health:

Histoplasmosis - a respiratory disease caused by inhaling spores of the histoplasma fungus, which grows in bat droppings (guano). People exposed to bat droppings in caves or other roosting areas may develop flu-like symptoms, and in severe cases, lung infections.

Mites and Parasites - Bats can host mites and fleas, which may spread to humans or pets if a bat colony is present in a home or building.

Reducing the risk

If a bat is found inside your home or workplace it is essential to contact a professional pest removal company like Rentokil Initial to handle the situation in a safe and humane manner. Never attempt to catch a bat on your own with bare hands. If you have been bitten or scratched by a bat, seek immediate medical attention. Post-exposure rabies treatment (PEP) includes a series of vaccines that are highly effective in preventing the disease.

How Rentokil Initial Can Help

Rentokil Initial technicians are trained in humane bat management. Our three step approach to bat control involves:

Safe Removal: Bats are gently dispersed and removed from the area via a non-toxic fumigant.

Exclusion: Once the bats have been removed, the area is sealed off to prevent re-entry.

Disinfection: We safely remove bat droppings and sanitise affected areas to eliminate histoplasmosis risks.

Bats are fascinating creatures with an important role in nature, but they should be handled with caution when they come into human spaces. If you suspect an issue with bats in your home, or if you’ve had a close encounter, Rentokil Initial is here to provide safe and humane solutions.

Have a bat problem?

Get in touch with us for a safe & humane bat removal.

Call us on 246 429 3546 or contact us online and we’ll contact you within 24 hours to book a free consult.