Vaccinate your pets as rabies cases spike, urges City
Seek medical attention immediately if you have been bitten by a dog as rabies is treatable, if it is detected early.
SEVEN cases of human rabies have been confirmed within the eThekwini district since January, with the latest two being reported between November 21 and 25.
“Pet owners are urged to get their animals vaccinated to curb the spread of rabies. There is an increase in rabies cases. It is wise to stay away from animals that have not been vaccinated against rabies,” said the eThekwini Municipality’s spokesperson, Msawake Mayisela.
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“If you have been bitten by a dog, seek medical attention immediately as rabies in humans is often fatal, but can be treated if medical attention is sought early,” he said.
Msawake added that the areas where cases were more prevalent are Adams, Nsimbini, Umbumbulu, Ezingonyameni, Clare Estate, KwaDabeka, St Wendolins and Inanda.
“Recently, most of the positive rabid animals were from the areas mentioned above. Numerous animal species may be affected by rabies, but it is most common in domestic dogs,” he said.
Health and awareness campaigns, aimed at improving rabies knowledge in the community, were conducted in most of the affected areas.
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