A Bat with Rabies Virus Discovered in the Canton of Obwalden
Published: Thursday, Aug 10th 2023, 17:00
Mise à jour le : Vendredi, 13 octobre 2023, 14:12
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In the canton of Obwalden, a bat infected with the rabies virus has been discovered. The animal was found in Sarnen in the Sarnersee. The Swiss Rabies Centre has confirmed the presence of a bat rabies virus in the animal. Infected bats are rarely found. Since 1992, there have only been five cases of bats with rabies in Switzerland, the last one being in the canton of Bern in 2022. These cases usually involve rare bat species that do not occur in inhabited areas like the common pipistrelle. There is no cause for alarm for the public, as Switzerland is still considered rabies-free and this case does not change that. Nevertheless, it is important not to touch sick or unusual wild animals. If bitten by a bat, a doctor should be consulted. In summary, a bat infected with the rabies virus has been discovered in the canton of Obwalden. This is a rare occurrence, with only five cases of bats with rabies in Switzerland since 1992. The public should not be alarmed, as Switzerland is still considered rabies-free. It is important not to touch sick or unusual wild animals, and if bitten by a bat, a doctor should be consulted.nnnnnnnn
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