On 7 June 2024, the Western Cape Provincial Veterinary Services issued a confirmed case of rabies detected from a Cape fur seal near Big Bay. The infected seal was found and later died of the disease on 22 March 2024.
Unsplash/Marlin Clark
With this verified rabies case, the City of Cape Town, to ensure public safety, has urged residents (as well as their pets) to keep ample distance from seals in the area. If bitten, the public is strongly advised to seek immediate medical attention and report the incident to the SPCA or relevant public health authority.
The deadly virus rabies is known to be spread through the saliva of infectious animals. Therefore, if this saliva has come in contact with your nose, mouth, or eyes, you are urged to visit your nearest hospital. Two other suspected rabies cases in other areas have been reported; results are awaiting.
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