Rabies now 'endemic' in Cape fur seal population

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According to the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, rabies has now become endemic in Cape fur seals.

This means the disease is persisting within the species, and the population is maintaining the infection.

A diver was attacked by a seal at Windmill Beach in Simon’s Town in January. It was the latest in a series of seal attacks around the Western Cape Coast.

The diver had gone snorkelling with his family, and was bitten on his foot by a seemingly rabid Cape fur seal.

There have also been reports of aggressive seals.

It is suspected that the seals were first infected by black-backed jackals, which prey on seal pups.

First marine mammal rabies outbreak

Dr. Lesley van Helden, state veterinarian for epidemiology at the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, highlighted the severity of the situation.

“It’s the first outbreak in a marine mammal,” she told EWN on International Seal Day (22 March).

“We do have rabies in various kinds of mammals that live on land, but this is the first time it’s moved into the sea.”

“It has become endemic in the Cape fur seal population, so that means wherever Cape fur seals occur along the coast, there’s the potential of the case of rabies being in one of them.”

What to do if you’re bitten

Van Helden also pointed out that if someone gets bitten, scratched, or sustains any kind of wound from a seal, they should go to the nearest health facility immediately.

Medical professionals can provide treatment to prevent the development of rabies.

Additionally, it is crucial for pet owners to ensure that their dogs and cats are vaccinated and that their vaccinations remain up to date, she added.

To minimise risks, the NSRI have also reminded swimmers to always:

Buddy up: Never swim alone
Use a tow float and safety whistle: These safety tools increase visibility and preparedness in the water
Keep fresh water and a first aid kit in your car: Essential for immediate post-incident care
Report unusual seal activity: Notify the City of Cape Town of any aggressive or abnormal seal behaviour