§ Mr. FabricantTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has been able to confirm rabies in the bat in East Sussex which died on 3 June; and if he will make a statement. [32745]
§ Mr. Douglas HoggTests carried out by the central veterinary laboratory have now confirmed that a bat which died in East Sussex on 3 June had rabies. The type is European Bat Lyssa Virus type II. Two people who handled and were bitten by the bat have received post-exposure treatment. A third possible contact is being followed up. No confirmed cases have previously been found in bats in Great Britain. MAFF has carried out a survey of the area where the bat was found and believe it to be an isolated individual from across the English channel. As a precaution we are arranging to monitor the local bat population for a period.
In addition a notice under the Rabies (Control) Order 1974 has been served on a premises restricting movement of other bats there and requiring cleansing and disinfection.