Be warned about rabies in dogs, Cape fur seals and other animals in South Africa

According to the spokespeople of the various departments, there’s a high risk of rabies in certain areas in South Africa. The disease currently occurs in dogs, Cape fur seals and other animals. The Department of Agriculture’s Chief Director of Strategic Communication, Linda Page says Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects mammals. It can also spread from animals to humans.

She says the virus is transmitted in the saliva of infected animals through bites, scratches, and licks. Page added that Rabies affects the brain and is fatal once a person or animal shows clinical signs. However, it can be prevented through animal vaccination and immediate medical attention in people exposed to an infected animal.

Over the last few months, there have been multiple reports of attacks on humans by aggressive Cape fur seals along the Cape coastline. That was the first incidence of rabies being observed in a marine mammal population. At the same time, several human deaths have been attributed this year to rabies from dogs in KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, North West and the Eastern Cape.

Members of the Public are asked to stay away from stray animals and not to touch animals they don’t know. Also, a person who suspects that an animal has rabies, should report this to the local state veterinary office, local welfare authority, wildlife rescue centre, Protected Areas Management Authority or the police.

The Departments have also shared the questions and answers below, should there be additional queries.

How would I know if an animal might have rabies?

Animals with rabies show changes in behaviour (abnormal behaviour) and signs of brain disease. They may drool a lot, become paralysed, are unable to swallow, continuously vocalise (barking, whining, howling, etc.), and become aggressive, or they may just appear weak and in a comatose state. Any mammal can become infected with rabies, including dogs, cats, livestock, jackals, foxes, mongooses, Cape fur seals, etc.

Where does rabies occur in South Africa?

Even though rabies occurs in all nine provinces of South Africa, rabies in dogs is common in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Limpopo. Rabies in Cape fur seals are found and known to travel along the coastline of the Northern Cape, Western Cape and Eastern Cape (up to Algoa Bay).

What should I do if I was bitten or scratched by a rabid animal?

If a person is bitten, scratched, or licked by an animal suspected to have rabies, wash the wound well with soap and running water and immediately seek treatment at the nearest clinic or hospital to prevent rabies virus infection.

 

READ MORE: For more information about rabies post-exposure prophylaxis

How do I keep my animals safe?

All dogs and cats must be correctly vaccinated against rabies throughout their lives. This is required by law. If you walk your dogs, keep them under control or on a leash to avoid contact with other animals. Enquire with your local state veterinarian, animal health technician, private veterinarian or animal welfare organisation for access to rabies vaccinations.