SA Chief Veterinary Officer Notice

Ehrlichiosis (E. canis) has been detected in a dog residing northeast of Port Augusta. This is the furthest south that PIRSA has had a clinical case reported of E.canis in a dog with no travel history to areas where E.canis is known to occur. Previous cases of E.canis in South Australia have been in the APY Lands and far north pastoral region. E.canis has also been detected in northern WA, Northern Territory and Queensland.

Regions around Port Augusta and further north are considered higher risk areas for infection as the Brown Dog Tick population is known to be higher here than the southern part of the state. PIRSA continues to provide subsidised laboratory testing to assist with the monitoring of this disease.

Having dogs on an appropriate tick repellent program continues to be the most effective way to prevent the disease. Dog owners living or travelling through these regions strongly advised to take appropriate actions to prevent their dog/s from being bitten by ticks.

Further detail can be found on the PIRSA website:

• E. canis Information for vets
• E. canis disease in dogs

Detection of Australian Bat Lyssa virus in flying fox

PIRSA has recently had a bat submitted that tested positive to Australian Bat Lyssavirus. This is the fourth bat that has tested positive to ABLV in the last seven years. While it is thought that less than 1% of bats carry ABLV it is a zoonotic disease of concern. It was great to see that those handing the bats had taken all the recommended precautions such as being vaccinated, however this still serves as a timely reminder to all vets about the significant public health risks associated with handling bats.

Please take this opportunity to ensure that your clinical protocols cover the safe handling of bats. The only people who should have close contact with bats are those who have been trained, are vaccinated, and are using personal protective equipment.

Additionally, this is an opportunity to ensure your clients and any wildlife carers that you may work with are also aware of the risks posed by bats.

See the PIRSA website for more information on managing injured bats.

If you suspect Ehrlichiosis and ABLV in animals, report it to PIRSA

These are all nationally notifiable diseases. If you believe your animal/s may be affected, report to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

More information

• PIRSA – E. canis Information for vets
• PIRSA – E. canis disease in dogs
• PIRSA – Managing injured bats

Dr Mary Carr
Chief Veterinary Officer, Department of Primary Industries and Regions