The South African Veterinary Association (Sava) has issued a public warning in light of a severe rabies outbreak sweeping across the Eastern Cape.
According to Sava, by the end of November there were 387 positive cases identified in animals, with BCM and Nelson Mandela Bay infection hotspots.
Rabies, as a zoonotic disease, can be passed between animals and humans and is transmitted through saliva, usually through bites.
Once clinical symptoms present themselves, there is no curative treatment.
The disease is fatal and kills at least one person globally every nine minutes. “To protect animals, family, and the community at large, pet owners must vaccinate their dogs and cats.
“In high-risk areas, annual vaccination is strongly recommended,” said Sava MD Gert Steyn.
“However, it is never too late for your pet to receive their first vaccination, followed by the booster protocol.”
Sava encourages all pet owners to ensure their pets’ vaccinations are up to date to help reduce the risk of infection.
According to the US Centre for Disease Control (CDC), early symptoms of rabies in animals can include lethargy, fever, vomiting, and anorexia.
As it continues to attack the central nervous system, these symptoms can escalate to include cerebral dysfunction, cranial nerve dysfunction, ataxia, weakness, paralysis, seizures, difficulty breathing and swallowing, excessive salivation, abnormal behaviour, aggression, and/or self-mutilation.
The case is similar for humans, with the early stages resembling the flu. These symptoms can include weakness, fever and headaches which last for days.
During the acute phase, which generally lasts between two to ten days, symptoms can include severe anxiety, confusion and agitation.
