Even in countries that are officially rabies-free, including in their domestic animal populations – such as Australia, Sweden and New Zealand – the virus may still be found in native bat species.

Only 6% of bats that were captured and tested for rabies in the U.S. had the virus, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation.

Scientist in South Africa believe they have successfully identified the first time the rabies virus has spread to sea mammals, in this case among 24 dead Cape fur seals.

Even in countries that are officially rabies-free, including in their domestic animal populations – such as Australia, Sweden and New Zealand – the virus may still be found in native bat species.