Chytrid fungus virus in frogs

Chytrid fungus virus in frogs

At its Rescue and Immediate Care training course last Sunday at Johns River Hall a trainee alerted FAWNA presenters to a Green Tree Frog that was not looking well. 

On examination the frog was displaying the classical signs of Chytrid fungus virus with sloughed skin, malnourished state and red tinges to its underbelly and legs. 

Euthanasia is the only option for sufferers of this highly contagious virus. 

This is a reminder that frogs should only be handled by people wearing gloves or some protection between the human hand and the frog, for protection of both species. 

“This was a hard lesson to new trainees in wildlife rescue and care”.

Meredith Ryan, FAWNA President

An article on the ABC news website https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-07-29/dead-shrivelled-frogs-turning-up-eastern-australia-help-find-why/100331042 explains more.