Source: science.org
Scientists have developed a novel method to vaccinate vampire bats against rabies using their natural grooming behavior. In a recent study, researchers applied an oral rabies vaccine in a gel form to the fur of 24 bats in a Mexican colony. Within days, mutual grooming spread the vaccine to 88% of the colony. This approach offers a gentler alternative to traditional bat culling or toxic gels, which often harm non-target species and fail to eradicate rabies.
Rabies transmitted by vampire bats causes about 450 livestock outbreaks yearly in Central and South America, costing farmers $50 million, especially impacting small-scale operations. With climate change and livestock expansion pushing bat populations northward, the need for effective, humane rabies control is growing. Experts suggest larger trials are needed, and the technique may also be used for other diseases like white-nose syndrome in U.S. bats. This innovation could help protect both bats and humans.