Health and Me

Riya Baibhawi

Knee Replacement Surgery-Everything You Need To Know About Recovery Time

A <span>knee replacement surgery</span>, also known as knee arthroplasty, involves replacing damaged knee joint surfaces with metal and plastic parts to relieve pain and improve function, especially for those with severe arthritis or injury. However, there is not much information on what to do after the surgery is performed. Dr Ayesha Abdeen, chief of hip and knee replacement surgery at Boston Medical Center, recently took to social media to break down exactly what to expect—from managing pain in the first few days to getting back on your feet and returning to the activities you love.

<h2>Here's Exactly What You Can Expect?</h2>

Total knee replacement (TKR) Surgery is usually done using spinal anesthesia along with a nerve block to help reduce pain after surgery. Right after the procedure, you will likely still feel pain relief from the nerve blocks for about eight to 12 hours.

Once the spinal anesthesia wears off, which is usually within the first hour or so in the recovery room, you will be encouraged to start walking. Early movement helps speed up recovery and lowers the risk of serious blood clots that can form in your leg (deep vein thrombosis) and travel to your lungs (pulmonary embolism). You will also be given a medication to help prevent blood clots, such as aspirin or a stronger blood thinner (anticoagulant), depending on the type of clots you have.

Pain during the first few days after TKR can be strong, especially in the front and back of the knee. Pain in the back of the knee may be due to bone spurs caused by arthritis that are removed during the surgery. To help manage this, specific nerve blocks are used right before surgery. After surgery, a “multi-modal” approach to pain relief is used.

This means you’ll get a combination of medications like acetaminophen, anti-inflammatory drugs and low-dose opioids. These medications often begin before surgery and continue afterward. Opioids use is usually stopped after one to two weeks to reduce the risk of dizziness, breathing problems, constipation, nausea and other issues.

<h2>How Soon Can You Go Home?</h2>Patients arrive at the hospital the day of surgery and can often go home the same day or the day after. Physical therapy starts the same day as surgery and continues for six to 12 weeks.  You can begin walking as soon as the anesthesia wears off. You’ll be allowed to put full weight on your leg, but most surgeons recommend using an assistive device such as crutches or a walker for the first few days or weeks to help with balance and prevent falls. 

<h2>What Exercises Can Help Speed Recovery?</h2>

Strengthening your quadriceps and hamstrings. Stretching these muscles improves flexibility at the knee in flexion (bending) and extension (straightening). This is key to avoiding scar tissue and stiffness. Balance and proprioception exercises (which help your body sense where your joints are) to prevent falls. Gait training to help improve the way you walk.

<h2>When Can I Return To Normal Activities?</h2>Depending on your activity level before surgery, you can resume walking right away. For those having a desk job,  you may return in two to four weeks. For more active jobs that involve standing or walking, it may take four to six weeks. Jobs involving heavy labor may take six to 12 weeks. You should not drive until you have stopped taking opioid medications and are cleared by your surgeon. 

You can start returning to sports gradually, based on your physical therapy and the type of sport. In general, most people return to sports within six to 12 weeks. Low-impact activities like walking, cycling, swimming and golf are recommended. It’s best to avoid high-impact activities like running or jumping to protect the new joint.

Pain is expected during the first few days and usually gets better after a few weeks. Ice and pain medications can help manage this. If you develop increasing calf and/or thigh pain and swelling, you should contact your doctor, as this could signal a blood clot. If you notice fluid, pus or bleeding at the incision, call your surgical team.

<h2>How Long Does A Knee Replacement Last?</h2>A knee replacement usually lasts 15 to 20 years, but sometimes it can fail earlier. Reasons for failure include joint infection (which can happen soon after surgery or years later from infection spreading through the bloodstream), wear and loosening of the components, bone fracture around the implant, instability or severe stiffness 

Health Conditions A-Z

health

Knee Replacement Surgery

Total Knee Replacement Surgery

Bone Health

Knee Pain

JOint pain

These Steps Will Wash Blueberries The Right Way And Remove Pathogens And Pesticides Residue

India’s First Dengue Vaccine Nears Final Trial Stage

This Year, Doctor's Day Reminded That Doctors Too Are Humans And Can Get Emotionally Exhausted

Health & Wellness

10 Easy Ways To Boost Daily Fiber Intake

Adding Walnut Oil To Your Diet? Benefits You Should Know

Drinks That Soothe Headaches And Migraines

Waist Exercises For More Toned Belly

This Is How Stress Affects Your Heart

Does Digital ‘Brain Rot’ Really Affect Your Health?

Dishes With Fermented Foods To Eat For Your Gut Health

Yoga Poses That Stimulate Good Bowel Health

Weekend Warrior Exercises For Full Body Movement

Weekend Meal Prep Ideas That Will Last You A Weekend

Easy Homemade Healthy Dishes For Long Afternoons

Silent Walking: Mental Health Booster That Keeps You Fit

Dumbbell Exercises You Can Do At Home

These Foods Are Keeping You Awake At Night

Ways to Manage Sugar Cravings

Your Body Doesn’t Want You To Lose Weight – Here's It Resists

High-Protein No Cook Dishes You Should Try

Yoga Poses That Aid In Digestion

Low Calorie Dinner Options For Weight Loss

Cardiac Arrest Vs. Heart Attack: Difference Explained Under 60 Seconds

High Protein Low-Carb Snacks To Have On The Go

Knee Exercises Desk Workers Should Do For Joint Health

Why Do I Feel Sleepy During The Day?

High Protein Early Morning Meals To Keep You Full Till Lunch

International Yoga Day 2025: Benefits of Doing Tadasana Every Morning

High-Carb Foods That Are Really Healthy

Dementia Vs Alzheimer’s: Difference Explained Under 60 Seconds

Healthy Staple Foods To Make Eating Healthy Easier

Are You Dealing With Abandonment Issues? Signs And Risk Factors

Mid-Work Healthy Snacks You Can Eat Throughout The Day

Common Mistakes You May Be Making In The Gym

Strengthen Your Legs Muscles With These Exercises

Beat Anxiety With Books: How Reading Helps With Stress

Ghee For Health: Ayurvedic Health Benefits Of Clarified Butter

Common Mistakes You Are Making While Walking

Exercises You Should Do At Home When You Skip Gym

Common Mistakes You May Be Making While Working Out

Ways You Are Runing Your Weight Loss Journey

Beyond Fruits – How To Retain Hydration And Stay Safe In Summers

Can This Extremely Hot Weather Trigger Our Mental Health?

A knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, involves replacing damaged knee joint surfaces with metal and plastic parts to relieve pain and improve function, especially for those with severe arthritis or injury. However, there is not much information on what to do after the surgery is performed. Dr Ayesha Abdeen, chief of hip and knee replacement surgery at Boston Medical Center, recently took to social media to break down exactly what to expect—from managing pain in the first few days to getting back on your feet and returning to the activities you love.Here's Exactly What You Can Expect?Total knee replacement (TKR) Surgery is usually done using spinal anesthesia along with a nerve block to help reduce pain after surgery. Right after the procedure, you will likely still feel pain relief from the nerve blocks for about eight to 12 hours.Once the spinal anesthesia wears off, which is usually within the first hour or so in the recovery room, you will be encouraged to start walking. Early movement helps speed up recovery and lowers the risk of serious blood clots that can form in your leg (deep vein thrombosis) and travel to your lungs (pulmonary embolism). You will also be given a medication to help prevent blood clots, such as aspirin or a stronger blood thinner (anticoagulant), depending on the type of clots you have.Pain during the first few days after TKR can be strong, especially in the front and back of the knee. Pain in the back of the knee may be due to bone spurs caused by arthritis that are removed during the surgery. To help manage this, specific nerve blocks are used right before surgery. After surgery, a “multi-modal” approach to pain relief is used.This means you’ll get a combination of medications like acetaminophen, anti-inflammatory drugs and low-dose opioids. These medications often begin before surgery and continue afterward. Opioids use is usually stopped after one to two weeks to reduce the risk of dizziness, breathing problems, constipation, nausea and other issues.How Soon Can You Go Home?Patients arrive at the hospital the day of surgery and can often go home the same day or the day after. Physical therapy starts the same day as surgery and continues for six to 12 weeks.  You can begin walking as soon as the anesthesia wears off. You’ll be allowed to put full weight on your leg, but most surgeons recommend using an assistive device such as crutches or a walker for the first few days or weeks to help with balance and prevent falls. What Exercises Can Help Speed Recovery?Strengthening your quadriceps and hamstrings. Stretching these muscles improves flexibility at the knee in flexion (bending) and extension (straightening). This is key to avoiding scar tissue and stiffness. Balance and proprioception exercises (which help your body sense where your joints are) to prevent falls. Gait training to help improve the way you walk.When Can I Return To Normal Activities?Depending on your activity level before surgery, you can resume walking right away. For those having a desk job,  you may return in two to four weeks. For more active jobs that involve standing or walking, it may take four to six weeks. Jobs involving heavy labor may take six to 12 weeks. You should not drive until you have stopped taking opioid medications and are cleared by your surgeon.  You can start returning to sports gradually, based on your physical therapy and the type of sport. In general, most people return to sports within six to 12 weeks. Low-impact activities like walking, cycling, swimming and golf are recommended. It’s best to avoid high-impact activities like running or jumping to protect the new joint.When Should I See A Doctor?Pain is expected during the first few days and usually gets better after a few weeks. Ice and pain medications can help manage this. If you develop increasing calf and/or thigh pain and swelling, you should contact your doctor, as this could signal a blood clot. If you notice fluid, pus or bleeding at the incision, call your surgical team.How Long Does A Knee Replacement Last?A knee replacement usually lasts 15 to 20 years, but sometimes it can fail earlier. Reasons for failure include joint infection (which can happen soon after surgery or years later from infection spreading through the bloodstream), wear and loosening of the components, bone fracture around the implant, instability or severe stiffness 

knee replacement surgery-everything you need to know about recovery time

Ishita Roy

AI In Healthcare: AI Tool Helped Identify Forms Of Dementia With 88% Accuracy

ai in healthcare: ai tool helped identify forms of dementia with 88% accuracy

Nutrition

The Truth About IV Drips: Are They Better Than Food Or Supplements?

the truth about iv drips: are they better than food or supplements?

Weight Loss Drugs Like Ozempic, Mounjaro And Wegovy Under Scrutiny After Deaths And Pancreatitis Reports in UK

weight loss drugs like ozempic, mounjaro and wegovy under scrutiny after deaths and pancreatitis reports in uk

Why Everyone Is Suddenly Talking About Ivermectin As A Cancer Breakthrough?

why everyone is suddenly talking about ivermectin as a cancer breakthrough?

This year's Doctor's Day was a reminder to all that doctor's too are human. The theme specifically focused on healing the healers, emphasizing on the need for people to recognize doctor's struggle and treat them with empathy and sympathy.

<h4>No Lines Between Personal And Professional Life</h4>

Health and Me had earlier reported on how doctors, even when they are not at work receive work questions all the time. In a previous <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/the-quiet-burden-our-doctors-carry-lets-care-for-our-doctors-article-152187202" data-type="tilCustomLink">interview </a>with Health and Me, Dr Guru N Reddy, a senior gastroenterologist, shared, “I didn’t spend time with my family when my kids were growing up. My work always came first and then came my family.” He also shared that how whenever he is gone for a gathering, it turns into an unofficial consultation desk. “Can I quickly show you this report?” “There’s this pain that won’t go, can you suggest something?” These are the questions he is faced with even at family events. 

All such scenarios will undoubtedly make a doctor feel overwhelmed. In fact, a survey conducted by Medtalks, a doctor engagement platform, revealed that doctors are burdened by growing mental and emotional burden. 

The survey, though small scale, conducted among 200 doctors across public and private health care, revealed an important issue. It found that 74% of respondents felt emotionally exhausted on a weekly or even on a daily basis. This survey also highlighted the depth of burnout and chronic stress in the medical profession. 

Many doctors also agreed that even after their work hours, they were still entertained with questions related to their patients health through WhatsApp. The data revealed that over 83% of doctors felt that they were under constant stress as their patients continued to contact them through WhatsApp, phone calls, and digital messages, with many asking them for urgent queries. This round-the-check communication has blurred personal and professional boundaries, which has disassociated doctors from their own families.

<h4>Looming Fear Of Threat And Violence On Doctors</h4>

The survey also found that threat and violence against doctors were a major source of stress and concern. Indian Medical Association (IMA) President, Dr Dilip Bhanushali, in an earlier <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/national-doctors-day-july-1-2025-theme-who-heals-the-healer-know-more-about-its-history-and-significance--article-152188972" data-type="tilCustomLink">interview </a>with Health and Me had said, "Violence against doctors is not rare—it’s routine."

He further added: “We’ve seen mobs arrive with kerosene, petrol, even swords, burning down hospitals. There was a law during COVID promising seven years imprisonment and non-bailable warrants for attacks on doctors, but it hasn’t been enforced. Most states still have weak three-year, bailable punishments.”

He also pointed towards the RG Kar Medical College’s case where a female postgraduate trainee doctor was raped and murdered and her body was found in a seminar room on campus. Doctors across the nation went on a strike, demanding justice. “But we cannot go to the roads and do strikes every time. Despite it all, we uphold our Hippocratic oath.” 

The survey too echoed the same feelings, where many respondents admitted that this fear has directly influenced their approach to diagnosis, communication, and decision-making. Doctors are now acting more defensively. 

The strain on doctors is intensified by mounting administrative duties, fear of legal action, limited institutional support, and rising expectations to deliver flawless outcomes. 

Over one-third of doctors reported working more than 60 hours a week, while only 17 percent are able to take a full, uninterrupted day off on a regular basis. Most respondents said they receive minimal support in coping with these demands. Strikingly, just 14 percent felt the current healthcare system allows them to prioritise their own wellbeing, whereas 52 percent said it does not.

doctorsday

doctors day

doctorsday mental health

doctor mental health

are doctors safe in india

health and wellness

This year's Doctor's Day was a reminder to all that doctor's too are human. The theme specifically focused on healing the healers, emphasizing on the need for people to recognize doctor's struggle and treat them with empathy and sympathy.No Lines Between Personal And Professional LifeHealth and Me had earlier reported on how doctors, even when they are not at work receive work questions all the time. In a previous interview with Health and Me, Dr Guru N Reddy, a senior gastroenterologist, shared, “I didn’t spend time with my family when my kids were growing up. My work always came first and then came my family.” He also shared that how whenever he is gone for a gathering, it turns into an unofficial consultation desk. “Can I quickly show you this report?” “There’s this pain that won’t go, can you suggest something?” These are the questions he is faced with even at family events. All such scenarios will undoubtedly make a doctor feel overwhelmed. In fact, a survey conducted by Medtalks, a doctor engagement platform, revealed that doctors are burdened by growing mental and emotional burden. The survey, though small scale, conducted among 200 doctors across public and private health care, revealed an important issue. It found that 74% of respondents felt emotionally exhausted on a weekly or even on a daily basis. This survey also highlighted the depth of burnout and chronic stress in the medical profession. Many doctors also agreed that even after their work hours, they were still entertained with questions related to their patients health through WhatsApp. The data revealed that over 83% of doctors felt that they were under constant stress as their patients continued to contact them through WhatsApp, phone calls, and digital messages, with many asking them for urgent queries. This round-the-check communication has blurred personal and professional boundaries, which has disassociated doctors from their own families.Looming Fear Of Threat And Violence On DoctorsThe survey also found that threat and violence against doctors were a major source of stress and concern. Indian Medical Association (IMA) President, Dr Dilip Bhanushali, in an earlier interview with Health and Me had said, "Violence against doctors is not rare—it’s routine."He further added: “We’ve seen mobs arrive with kerosene, petrol, even swords, burning down hospitals. There was a law during COVID promising seven years imprisonment and non-bailable warrants for attacks on doctors, but it hasn’t been enforced. Most states still have weak three-year, bailable punishments.”He also pointed towards the RG Kar Medical College’s case where a female postgraduate trainee doctor was raped and murdered and her body was found in a seminar room on campus. Doctors across the nation went on a strike, demanding justice. “But we cannot go to the roads and do strikes every time. Despite it all, we uphold our Hippocratic oath.” The survey too echoed the same feelings, where many respondents admitted that this fear has directly influenced their approach to diagnosis, communication, and decision-making. Doctors are now acting more defensively. The strain on doctors is intensified by mounting administrative duties, fear of legal action, limited institutional support, and rising expectations to deliver flawless outcomes. Over one-third of doctors reported working more than 60 hours a week, while only 17 percent are able to take a full, uninterrupted day off on a regular basis. Most respondents said they receive minimal support in coping with these demands. Strikingly, just 14 percent felt the current healthcare system allows them to prioritise their own wellbeing, whereas 52 percent said it does not.

this year, doctor's day reminded that doctors too are humans and can get emotionally exhausted

Aarushi Bhadury

Later Dinners Are A Recipe For Disaster - Study Finds The Best Time To Eat Dinner For Health

Is Dairy The Reason You’re Having Nightmares? Science Says Maybe

is dairy the reason you’re having nightmares? science says maybe

High Cholesterol Food Swap For Your Heart Health Backed By Science

high cholesterol food swap for your heart health backed by science

Parenting

Do Not Force Your Picky Eater Child To Eat - Picky Eaters Dos And Don'ts Guide

do not force your picky eater child to eat - picky eaters dos and don'ts guide

Protein Bars Are Not As Healthy As You May Think They Are - Avoid These Components For Future Buys

protein bars are not as healthy as you may think they are - avoid these components for future buys

When it comes to dinner, many of us focus on what we eat, aiming for healthy and delicious food. But we often don't think about when we eat it, squeezing dinner in whenever our busy schedules allow. However, a growing amount of research suggests that when you eat can be just as important for your health as what you eat. And it seems that eating dinner earlier might be the way to go. 

<h2>What's the <span rel="noindex">Best Time for Dinner</span>? </h2>

Scientists haven't found one single "perfect" dinner time, but it's generally best to avoid eating late for your metabolism. Try to finish dinner at least two hours before you go to bed, and ideally even longer. According to a 2024 study published in the JAMA Network Open, good goal is to eat dinner sometime between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. 

Of course, life happens, and sometimes you'll have to eat later. If it's just occasionally, don't worry too much. Just try not to eat a very large meal right before bed. In fact, research suggests that dinner shouldn't be your biggest meal of the day, which is different from what many Americans are used to. Instead, try to eat most of your calories earlier in the day, around when you wake up or in the middle of the day.

<h2>Why Does When You Eat Dinner Matter? </h2>

Our bodies have internal "clocks" that manage how we function throughout the day. This means that the exact same meal can affect your body differently depending on the time you eat it. 

For instance, one study found that when healthy young adults ate the same dinner at 10 p.m. instead of 6 p.m., their blood sugar levels went higher and their bodies processed fat less effectively. Late dinners can have this impact even if you're not eating right before bed. 

One reason for this could be melatonin, a hormone your body releases at night to help you sleep. As melatonin levels rise, it seems to make it harder for your body to control blood sugar, leading to bigger and longer-lasting spikes after a late meal. Research also shows that eating dinner late can make you hungrier, cause your body to burn fewer calories, and even lead to changes in your body that <span>promote fat gain</span>. 

<h2>How <span rel="noindex">Late Dinners Affect Your Health</span> </h2>

While many studies on meal timing are done in controlled lab settings, the findings suggest that regularly eating dinner late could increase your risk for health problems like type 2 diabetes and obesity. Many studies have already shown this connection. On the other hand, eating more of your calories earlier in the day seems to help with weight loss and improve signs of good metabolic health. 

It's not just about metabolism either. Other research suggests that people who stop eating after 6 p.m. tend to get more sleep than those who eat until midnight. There's even a serious study from 2024 that links late eating to a higher risk of death. So, the general advice is clear: for most people, it's best to limit how much food you eat during the nighttime hours. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">Tips for Eating Dinner Earlier</span> </h2>

If you're used to eating late, changing your routine can be tough. To make the switch easier, start by making changes earlier in your day. If you often skip breakfast and grab a quick, small lunch, you'll likely be very hungry by evening. So, make sure you eat good, hearty meals earlier in the day that include plenty of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. This will help you feel less hungry at night. 

Some people also find it helpful to set a specific "cut-off time" after which they stop eating, rather than just vaguely aiming for an earlier dinner. If you try this, it's okay to start small. Begin by closing the kitchen just 30 minutes before bedtime, then extend it to an hour, and so on. The key is to start where you are and build up gradually. 

How late dinners affect health

best time for dinner

Late dinner

Late Dinners Affect Your Health

Tips for Eating Dinner Earlier

promote fat gain

When it comes to dinner, many of us focus on what we eat, aiming for healthy and delicious food. But we often don't think about when we eat it, squeezing dinner in whenever our busy schedules allow. However, a growing amount of research suggests that when you eat can be just as important for your health as what you eat. And it seems that eating dinner earlier might be the way to go. What's the Best Time for Dinner? Scientists haven't found one single "perfect" dinner time, but it's generally best to avoid eating late for your metabolism. Try to finish dinner at least two hours before you go to bed, and ideally even longer. According to a 2024 study published in the JAMA Network Open, good goal is to eat dinner sometime between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Of course, life happens, and sometimes you'll have to eat later. If it's just occasionally, don't worry too much. Just try not to eat a very large meal right before bed. In fact, research suggests that dinner shouldn't be your biggest meal of the day, which is different from what many Americans are used to. Instead, try to eat most of your calories earlier in the day, around when you wake up or in the middle of the day. Why Does When You Eat Dinner Matter? Our bodies have internal "clocks" that manage how we function throughout the day. This means that the exact same meal can affect your body differently depending on the time you eat it. For instance, one study found that when healthy young adults ate the same dinner at 10 p.m. instead of 6 p.m., their blood sugar levels went higher and their bodies processed fat less effectively. Late dinners can have this impact even if you're not eating right before bed. One reason for this could be melatonin, a hormone your body releases at night to help you sleep. As melatonin levels rise, it seems to make it harder for your body to control blood sugar, leading to bigger and longer-lasting spikes after a late meal. Research also shows that eating dinner late can make you hungrier, cause your body to burn fewer calories, and even lead to changes in your body that promote fat gain. How Late Dinners Affect Your Health While many studies on meal timing are done in controlled lab settings, the findings suggest that regularly eating dinner late could increase your risk for health problems like type 2 diabetes and obesity. Many studies have already shown this connection. On the other hand, eating more of your calories earlier in the day seems to help with weight loss and improve signs of good metabolic health. It's not just about metabolism either. Other research suggests that people who stop eating after 6 p.m. tend to get more sleep than those who eat until midnight. There's even a serious study from 2024 that links late eating to a higher risk of death. So, the general advice is clear: for most people, it's best to limit how much food you eat during the nighttime hours. Tips for Eating Dinner Earlier If you're used to eating late, changing your routine can be tough. To make the switch easier, start by making changes earlier in your day. If you often skip breakfast and grab a quick, small lunch, you'll likely be very hungry by evening. So, make sure you eat good, hearty meals earlier in the day that include plenty of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. This will help you feel less hungry at night. Some people also find it helpful to set a specific "cut-off time" after which they stop eating, rather than just vaguely aiming for an earlier dinner. If you try this, it's okay to start small. Begin by closing the kitchen just 30 minutes before bedtime, then extend it to an hour, and so on. The key is to start where you are and build up gradually. 

later dinners are a recipe for disaster - study finds the best time to eat dinner for health

Australian Man Dies From An 'Extremely Rare' Rabies Like Infection After A Bat Bite

Health News

Australian Man Battles For Life After Rare 'Rabies-Like' Bat Bite; What Is The Deadly Lyssavirus

australian man battles for life after rare 'rabies-like' bat bite; what is the deadly lyssavirus

Why The Nipah Virus Still Persists After 25 Years In Southeast Asia

why the nipah virus still persists after 25 years in southeast asia

With 23,000 Confirmed Cases, Oropouche Virus Raises Public Health Concern– All About The 'Neglected Tropical Disease'

oropouche virus raises public health concern with 23,000 confirmed cases – what you need to know about the disease

ICMR Study Reveals, Covid Vaccines NOT Behind Sudden Deaths—Flags Other Risk Factors

icmr study reveals, covid vaccines not behind sudden deaths—flags other risk factors

An Australian man in his 50s has died after contracting Australian bat <span>lyssavirus</span> (ABLV), a rare but deadly virus closely related to rabies. The man, who lived in northern New South Wales, was bitten by a bat several months ago and succumbed to the infection this week after being hospitaliszed in critical condition.

In a statement released on Thursday, NSW Health confirmed the fatality and extended condolences: “We express our sincere condolences to the man's family and friends for their tragic loss. While it is extremely rare to see a case of Australian bat lyssavirus, there is no effective treatment for it.”

<h4>What Is Australian Bat Lyssavirus?</h4>

First identified in 1996, Australian bat lyssavirus belongs to the Lyssavirus genus, the same family as the classical rabies virus (RABV). Like its more globally prevalent cousin, ABLV causes a fatal form of viral encephalomyelitis—an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. Once symptoms develop, there is no known cure or treatment.

Transmission occurs when the saliva of an infected bat enters the body through a bite or scratch. According to NSW Health, any bat in Australia—regardless of species—could potentially carry the virus. In this case, officials have not yet identified the exact bat species responsible for the infection.

The early symptoms of ABLV infection mimic those of the flu, including headache, fever, and fatigue, which can delay diagnosis. However, the disease rapidly progresses to paralysis, delirium, convulsions, and ultimately death.

Symptoms may appear days, weeks, or even years after exposure, adding another layer of complexity to diagnosis and response.

This recent death is only the fourth recorded human case of ABLV infection in Australia, and tragically, all four have been fatal.

While the disease has no cure, prompt medical treatment after exposure can prevent infection. NSW Health strongly urges the public to avoid all contact with bats. In the event of a bite or scratch, the following steps should be taken immediately:

<ul><li>Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes</li><li>Apply an antiseptic with antiviral action</li><li>Seek urgent medical attention for administration of rabies immunoglobulin and a rabies vaccine series</li></ul>

Dr. Jeremy McAnulty, Director of Health Protection at NSW Health, emphasized the importance of public awareness: “No matter how minor the scratch or bite may seem, immediate treatment is essential. Rabies vaccines are extremely effective when administered quickly.”

<h4>The Broader Context: Lyssaviruses and Rabies Risk</h4>

Australian bat lyssavirus may be rare, but its relation to rabies—one of the deadliest infectious diseases globally—makes it especially concerning.

According to a 2021 study titled "Rabies Infection: An Overview of Lyssavirus-Host Protein Interactions," lyssaviruses are negative-sense, single-stranded RNA viruses known to infect mammals and cause fatal encephalomyelitis. Despite differences in geography and host species, illnesses caused by rabies virus (RABV) and other lyssaviruses are virtually indistinguishable once symptoms appear.

Worldwide, rabies still causes approximately 60,000 deaths annually, mostly in Asia and Africa. The fatality rate of clinical rabies—once symptoms begin—is nearly 100%, underscoring the importance of pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis.

<h4>Flying Foxes and Microbats Under Scrutiny</h4>

ABLV has been found in multiple Australian bat species, particularly flying foxes and insect-eating microbats. These animals often come into contact with humans, especially in urban or suburban environments where bats may roost or forage.

Despite the important ecological role bats play—as pollinators, pest controllers, and seed dispersers—public health officials continue to stress no direct handling of bats by untrained individuals. Wildlife carers and veterinarians are advised to wear protective gear and be vaccinated against rabies.

<h4>Public Health Measures Going Forward</h4>

This latest case serves as a stark reminder of the persistent, though rare, risk that Australian bat lyssavirus poses to human health. NSW Health is reinforcing education campaigns and urging any bat encounters to be reported immediately.

Authorities continue to collaborate with wildlife and disease surveillance networks to monitor ABLV across bat populations and ensure rapid response to potential exposures.

In closing, NSW Health reiterated, “Although Australian bat lyssavirus cases are extremely rare, they are always fatal without timely treatment. Awareness and early action can mean the difference between life and death.”

lyssavirus

rare rabies

bat bite

bat virus

An Australian man in his 50s has died after contracting Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV), a rare but deadly virus closely related to rabies. The man, who lived in northern New South Wales, was bitten by a bat several months ago and succumbed to the infection this week after being hospitaliszed in critical condition.In a statement released on Thursday, NSW Health confirmed the fatality and extended condolences: “We express our sincere condolences to the man's family and friends for their tragic loss. While it is extremely rare to see a case of Australian bat lyssavirus, there is no effective treatment for it.”What Is Australian Bat Lyssavirus?First identified in 1996, Australian bat lyssavirus belongs to the Lyssavirus genus, the same family as the classical rabies virus (RABV). Like its more globally prevalent cousin, ABLV causes a fatal form of viral encephalomyelitis—an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. Once symptoms develop, there is no known cure or treatment.Transmission occurs when the saliva of an infected bat enters the body through a bite or scratch. According to NSW Health, any bat in Australia—regardless of species—could potentially carry the virus. In this case, officials have not yet identified the exact bat species responsible for the infection.Early Symptoms Often MisleadingThe early symptoms of ABLV infection mimic those of the flu, including headache, fever, and fatigue, which can delay diagnosis. However, the disease rapidly progresses to paralysis, delirium, convulsions, and ultimately death.Symptoms may appear days, weeks, or even years after exposure, adding another layer of complexity to diagnosis and response.This recent death is only the fourth recorded human case of ABLV infection in Australia, and tragically, all four have been fatal.A Preventable TragedyWhile the disease has no cure, prompt medical treatment after exposure can prevent infection. NSW Health strongly urges the public to avoid all contact with bats. In the event of a bite or scratch, the following steps should be taken immediately:Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutesApply an antiseptic with antiviral actionSeek urgent medical attention for administration of rabies immunoglobulin and a rabies vaccine seriesDr. Jeremy McAnulty, Director of Health Protection at NSW Health, emphasized the importance of public awareness: “No matter how minor the scratch or bite may seem, immediate treatment is essential. Rabies vaccines are extremely effective when administered quickly.”The Broader Context: Lyssaviruses and Rabies RiskAustralian bat lyssavirus may be rare, but its relation to rabies—one of the deadliest infectious diseases globally—makes it especially concerning.According to a 2021 study titled "Rabies Infection: An Overview of Lyssavirus-Host Protein Interactions," lyssaviruses are negative-sense, single-stranded RNA viruses known to infect mammals and cause fatal encephalomyelitis. Despite differences in geography and host species, illnesses caused by rabies virus (RABV) and other lyssaviruses are virtually indistinguishable once symptoms appear.Worldwide, rabies still causes approximately 60,000 deaths annually, mostly in Asia and Africa. The fatality rate of clinical rabies—once symptoms begin—is nearly 100%, underscoring the importance of pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis.Flying Foxes and Microbats Under ScrutinyABLV has been found in multiple Australian bat species, particularly flying foxes and insect-eating microbats. These animals often come into contact with humans, especially in urban or suburban environments where bats may roost or forage.Despite the important ecological role bats play—as pollinators, pest controllers, and seed dispersers—public health officials continue to stress no direct handling of bats by untrained individuals. Wildlife carers and veterinarians are advised to wear protective gear and be vaccinated against rabies.Public Health Measures Going ForwardThis latest case serves as a stark reminder of the persistent, though rare, risk that Australian bat lyssavirus poses to human health. NSW Health is reinforcing education campaigns and urging any bat encounters to be reported immediately.Authorities continue to collaborate with wildlife and disease surveillance networks to monitor ABLV across bat populations and ensure rapid response to potential exposures.In closing, NSW Health reiterated, “Although Australian bat lyssavirus cases are extremely rare, they are always fatal without timely treatment. Awareness and early action can mean the difference between life and death.”

australian man dies from an 'extremely rare' rabies like infection after a bat bite

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.

Knee Replacement Surgery-Everything You Need To Know About Recovery Time

Quick Stories

This Year, Doctor's Day Reminded That Doctors Too Are Humans And Can Get Emotionally Exhausted

Later Dinners Are A Recipe For Disaster - Study Finds The Best Time To Eat Dinner For Health

Australian Man Dies From An 'Extremely Rare' Rabies Like Infection After A Bat Bite

Health Conditions A-Z

These Steps Will Wash Blueberries The Right Way And Remove Pathogens And Pesticides Residue

India’s First Dengue Vaccine Nears Final Trial Stage

This Year, Doctor's Day Reminded That Doctors Too Are Humans And Can Get Emotionally Exhausted