Rabies detected in Strand

Pet owners are encouraged to get their 4-legged friends vaccinated, after Western Cape Veterinary Services received laboratory results confirming rabies in a dog in Strand

Rabies is a viral disease that can affect animals and people. It is transmitted by saliva or other body fluids.

‘’For example, a dog or person can be infected by being bitten, scratched or licked by a rabid animal. Once rabies has been established, there is no effective treatment. However, rabies is very easy to prevent by vaccinating dogs and cats,’’ says Western Cape Agriculture MEC, Dr. Ivan Meyer.

Western Cape Agriculture Department’s Veterinary officials says it will be offering free rabies vaccinations for cats and dogs in the Strand area from 15-17 March, between 11h00 - 16h30.

15 March 2022          Victoria Park 1

16 March 2022          Behind Kwik Spar Strand

17 March 2022          Open space on the corner of Lichtenstein and De Vos Streets

‘’Pet owners in the Strand and other areas of Cape Town are also encouraged to take their pets to their private veterinarian or animal welfare organisation to make sure their rabies vaccinations are up to date. Ensuring vaccination of pets will prevent a large-scale outbreak of rabies and save human lives,’’ added Meyer.

The department shared advice on what to do if you suspect of being ‘infected’:

‘’If you suspect you have had contact with a rabid animal, get preventative treatment as soon as possible. First, wash any bite or scratch wound thoroughly with soap and water, and then go immediately to your doctor or clinic to get rabies vaccinations and immunoglobulin. The sooner you receive treatment, the better you will be protected against rabies.’’

 

Done By: Mitchum George