SOUTH AFRICA FACES GROWING RABIES THREAT AFFECTING HUMANS, DOGS AND SEALS

South Africans and incoming travellers are being warned of a potentially deadly rabies outbreak, with the Department of Agriculture raising alarms over the viral disease currently spreading among dogs, Cape fur seals and other mammals across the country.

Rabies, a virus that attacks the brain and nervous system, has already claimed human lives in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), the Eastern Cape and Limpopo in 2025.

The disease is transmitted through contact with the saliva of infected animals — typically via bites, scratches, or even licks.

“The public is urged to stay away from stray animals and not to handle them. Anyone who suspects an animal may have rabies should immediately report it to the nearest state veterinary office, local welfare authority, or the police,” the department said in a statement on Tuesday.

Rabies Not Limited to Dogs

The threat extends far beyond domestic pets. Rabies has become endemic among Cape fur seals, with confirmed cases appearing on beaches along the Northern Cape, Western Cape and Eastern Cape coastlines — reaching as far as Algoa Bay.

CapeNature has urged the public to keep a safe distance from all seals, including pups, particularly as the busy summer holiday season approaches.

Animals infected with rabies may show unusual or aggressive behaviour, appear weak or lethargic, drool excessively, become paralysed, or fall into a coma.

Any mammal — including cats, livestock, mongooses and jackals — is susceptible to the virus.

What to Do If You Suspect Rabies Exposure

If you are bitten, scratched, or licked by an animal that may have rabies, take immediate action — the disease is almost always fatal once symptoms appear.

Authorities urge anyone exposed to:

• Wash the wound immediately with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes to reduce the risk of infection.
• Seek medical attention at the nearest clinic or hospital as soon as possible for further treatment and vaccination.

To protect your pets — and yourself — remember that rabies vaccination is legally required for all dogs and cats, and must be kept up to date throughout their lives.