Rabies in South African seals: Western Cape
03 Sep 2024
Since June 2024, a small number of cape fur seals in the Western Cape area have been found to be infected with rabies.
Most recently, according to media, a seal was found to have rabies in the Mossel Bay area on 25 August 2024.
The Western Cape Government advises that all human and animals contact with seals or any other wildlife must be avoided and that immediate medical advice be sought after an animal bite.
Anyone bitten by a seal in South Africa in 2024 should also seek medical advice without delay.
Rabies is a fatal viral infection which affects the brain and nerves. Nearly everyone who has rabies will die. The virus is spread through the saliva of infected animals, usually following a bite, lick or scratch.
Advice to Travellers
Before you travel, you should:
- check if rabies is a risk at your destination
- consider having rabies vaccines before travel; see a travel health professional (at least 4-6 weeks before you travel) if you think you might need a rabies vaccine course or booster dose
- be aware what to do if you think you have been exposed to rabies virus
- determine if there will be any reliable medical facilities at your destination
If you are travelling to a country where rabies is considered a risk, you should:
- avoid contact with animals, especially dogs, cats, seals and monkeys: be aware that some animals can be infected with rabies without being aggressive or behaving strangely
- be aware that children are more likely to approach animals. Check them for wounds, and encourage them to tell you if they are bitten, licked or scratched by an animal
- read the animal bites page for advice on how to prevent being bitten by bats and animals
- seek immediate medical attention if you might have been exposed to rabies
For further information, see the fitfortravel Rabies page.