Bats in BC do not have or spread SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19 in humans). SARS-CoV-2 is not found in North American bat species at present.
Transmission of COVID-19 is from humans to other humans
There are theoretical concerns about the possibility for transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from humans to bats. There is no evidence at this time that North American bat species can be infected with SARS-CoV-2; however, the data is extremely sparse, so out of an abundance of caution, until we know more, precautions to minimize the chance of North American bats of being exposed to SARS-CoV-2 are being taken. This is not unique to bats – there are also concerns of possible transmission from humans to other wildlife species, particularly mustelids, felids and canids.
Research is underway to investigate if transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from humans to bats is possible and the potential consequences of a transmission event.
Avoid handling live bats and any wildlife. If handling live bats cannot be avoided, follow recommendations about PPE to prevent spread of respiratory droplets – a face mask, thick gloves, etc.
The concern is transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from humans to bats, not vice versa, so handling dead bats is fine as long as the normal precautions to prevent rabies exposure are followed.
