CAPE TOWN, Nov. 5 — As the December holidays approach, South Africa’s Department of Agriculture has warned the public and travelers about the rising risk of rabies infections among dogs, Cape fur seals and other mammals across the country.
“There have been human deaths attributed to rabies from dogs in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Limpopo in 2025,” the department said in a statement issued on Tuesday.
“The public is urged to keep away from stray animals and not to touch them. If a person suspects that an animal has rabies, he/she should report this to the local state veterinary office, local welfare authority, or the police,” it added.
The department noted that rabies has also become endemic in the Cape fur seal population, with some cases being detected on Cape beaches.
“Seals may also carry numerous other diseases that can be transmitted to humans, and their sharp teeth can cause physical damage,” it said.
“The public is urged to take note of the risk of rabies and other hazards in Cape fur seals and keep a respectful distance from these animals, including seal pups.”
According to the statement, rabies occurs in all nine provinces of South Africa and has been reported in dogs, cats, wildlife, and livestock.
Infected animals may show unusual behavior, including excessive drooling, paralysis and aggression. Rabies is a deadly viral disease that can be spread to humans through the saliva of infected animals via bites, scratches, or licks.
The disease affects the brain and can become fatal once a person or animal shows clinical signs. However, it can be prevented through preventive vaccination of animals and immediate medical attention for people exposed to an infected animal. (Xinhua)
