Flying-fox paralysis syndrome (FFPS) is a syndrome that has been occurring in black, grey-headed and little red flying-foxes across a range of locations in south-east Queensland and north-east NSW since 2020. Reports of FFPS have continued each year, particularly over the summer months, including 2024/25. Affected bats may have paralysis and paresis (limb weakness), protruding tongue, inability to swallow or blink, and difficulty breathing. For more information: Flying-fox Paralysis Syndrome - Interim case definition, sample collection & treatment advice.
The occurrence of FFPS overlaps geographically and seasonally with similar clusters of paralysis affecting rainbow lorikeets (Lorikeet Paralysis Syndrome (LPS)). Although the cause of both syndromes may not be the same, the similarities are of interest to investigations because flying-foxes and lorikeets share ecological niches and food sources.
To facilitate communication and coordination, a combined Paralysis Syndromes Working Group has been formed, with participation from wildlife rehabilitators, veterinarians, scientists and government agencies.
The working group has established a Diagnosis and Investigation sub-group to continue a systematic approach to further diagnostic investigation of both syndromes. This group is currently focusing on toxins (plant, fungal or other origin) and metabolic disease as the most likely causes of FFPS and LPS. Investigations have found no evidence of an infectious disease as the cause of either syndrome (Paralysis event in flying foxes in Queensland and New South Wales).
A second sub-group is focusing on Incident Preparedness and Response for LPS and FFPS. Through this group, triage, treatment and response protocols are being developed, refined and circulated to assist with management of LPS and FFPS cases.
To better understand FFPS events, WHA is collecting information on the geographic range, species and age of animals affected, and range of clinical signs seen. If you have information on FFPS events, please fill out the Flying-fox Event Report Form.
Members of the public should not handle flying-foxes due to the risk of exposure to diseases such as Australian bat lyssavirus. If you find a sick, injured or abandoned flying-fox:
If you see any other unusual signs of disease or deaths in wildlife anywhere in Australia, you can report it to:
- your local State/Territory WHA Coordinator
- the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on free call 1800 675 888
- your local veterinarian
- the Department of Primary Industries or Agriculture in the State/Territory in which the event is occurring/occurred.