Dog bites lead to rabies deaths in Mfume in Ward 105
For suspected rabies bites or scratches residents are advised to wash the area with soap and running water and seek urgent medical attention.
FOLLOWING two confirmed cases of rabies deaths at Mfume and one suspected infection at Umgababa’s Mnini area, eThekwini Municipality has intensified pet vaccination campaigns and public awareness initiatives across the affected communities.
The confirmed cases involve two men from Ward 105 who were bitten by the same dog in July.
Also read: Rabies outbreak confirmed in Amanzimtoti
Rabies is commonly transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, particularly dogs and cats. It is a preventable but almost always fatal disease once symptoms develop.
eThekwini spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila said both men subsequently developed symptoms consistent with rabies and tested positive for the disease. They both died in August.
He confirmed that the Umgababa case involved an elderly woman and it is currently under investigation, with further diagnostic processes underway.
“In response, a co-ordinated One Health Action Group comprising Communicable Disease Control, State Veterinary Services, environmental health practitioners, community health workers and other stakeholders has implemented a comprehensive response programme. Measures undertaken include active case investigations, community awareness campaigns, healthcare worker training, environmental health assessments and enhanced surveillance activities,” said Mzila.
Also read: Vaccinate pets against rabies, says SPCA
He reminded residents to immediately wash any animal bite or scratch thoroughly with soap and running water, seek urgent medical attention, report aggressive or abnormal animal behaviour, and ensure that all dogs and cats are vaccinated regularly against rabies.
A recent targeted animal vaccination campaign conducted in Ward 105 vaccinated 141 dogs and seven cats. Mzila said about 5000 additional vaccine doses have been secured to support the expanded response.
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