Büren an der Aare: Rabies in bat
A bat in Büren an der Aare has tested positive for rabies. Authorities are giving the all-clear for pets and people.
The Swiss Rabies Centre confirmed the presence of the rabies virus on 30 June 2022 in a bat found in the municipality of Büren an der Aare.
Switzerland is free of rabies in both domestic and wild animals. Only very rare cases of bat rabies occur. In the past 40 years, four cases have been confirmed, most recently in 2017 in Neuchâtel.
In the 2017 Neuchâtel case, a person discovered a weak and disoriented bat on the pavement. When they tried to release the animal at nightfall, the bat bit the person on the finger and then died. Because the bite was fairly deep, the person sought hospital treatment, where they received preventive rabies treatment.
All rabies cases were identified in rare bat species and not in the common pipistrelle, which is frequently found in inhabited areas.
It is important not to touch wildlife — especially sick or behaviorally unusual animals — and to notify the wildlife warden. If bitten by a bat, medical attention should be sought immediately in order to initiate the necessary precautionary measures.
There is no cause for concern among the public. Switzerland continues to be regarded as rabies-free.
