Defining the risk of human exposure to Australian bat lyssavirus through potential non-bat animal infection.

On 16 January 2004, the Brisbane Southside Public Health Unit (BSPHU) was notifi ed of an ABLV positive result on a black fl ying fox (Pteropus alecto). BSPHU investigations revealed that the bat was actually found on 2 January 2004, when the family pet, a 2-year-old desexed female Alsatian-Kelpie cross was observed barking at the bat on the ground and brought the bat to the owner’s attention. The owner did not witness any direct contact between the dog and the bat. Initial reports (16 January) suggested that there were marks on the bat body that may have been attributable to attack by the dog. However, subsequent post mortem examination (19 January) found small multiple holes on both wing membranes (Figure), and no lacerations on the body or head that were consistent with dog bites.