Rabies in Cape Fur Seals: A Growing Concern for Cape Town - Cape Town Today
Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

Rabies in Cape Fur Seals: A Growing Concern for Cape Town

5 mins read
rabies cape fur seals

Rising cases of rabies in Cape Fur Seals in Cape Town are alarming beachgoers, with 24 confirmed cases since May 2024. Experts urge people to stay away from seals and report any unusual behavior. If bitten or scratched, it’s crucial to seek medical help immediately. Vaccinating pets is also very important to keep them safe. As World Rabies Day approaches, the city emphasizes the need for public awareness and safety when interacting with these coastal creatures.

What is the risk of rabies in Cape Fur Seals in Cape Town?

The rabies virus is now endemic in Cape Fur Seals in Cape Town, with 24 confirmed cases since May 2024. Beachgoers should avoid close contact with seals, report unusual behavior, and seek immediate medical attention if bitten or scratched. Vaccination for pets is essential.

An Emerging Threat on the Beaches

As World Rabies Day approaches on Saturday, September 28, 2024, the City of Cape Town alerts the public about an alarming development: the rabies virus has now become endemic in Cape Fur Seals. This new reality stresses the need for heightened awareness among beachgoers and those who frequent the coastal areas.

The City has joined forces with several prominent organizations—including the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE), SANParks, Cape of Good Hope SPCA, Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation, Sea Search, and Hout Bay Seal Rescue Centre—to launch the Rabies in Cape Fur Seals Response Plan. This comprehensive initiative aims to mitigate the impact of the rabies virus on the seal population and minimize the risk of human exposure.

Since the initial rabies cases in May 2024, there have been 24 confirmed instances of the virus in seals. Retrospective testing has also revealed 14 positive brain samples dating back to August 2022. Despite the growing number of cases, the full extent of rabies’ impact on the seal population remains unclear. This marks the first known occurrence of rabies in a marine mammal, presenting numerous challenges and uncertainties for scientists and authorities.

Public Health Measures and Safety Precautions

Despite the rise in rabies cases among seals, health officials do not advise pre-exposure rabies vaccination for the general public. However, immediate medical attention and Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) for rabies are crucial for anyone bitten or scratched by a seal. Dog owners also bear the responsibility of ensuring their pets’ rabies vaccinations are up to date and must keep their dogs away from seals to prevent any potential transmission.

In an innovative approach, some seals frequently interacting with humans have been vaccinated against rabies. Nevertheless, feeding seals remains strictly prohibited. Activities involving seal feeding—such as paying, participating, taking photographs, or recording videos—are illegal and can result in arrests.

The public is strongly advised to avoid all coastal wildlife, including seals, regardless of their rabies status. It is illegal to approach, touch, handle, harass, or interfere with any coastal wildlife. Seals are a natural part of the coastline, often seen on beaches and inshore areas. If a seal displays unusual or aggressive behavior, people should retreat or exit the water if they are swimming, surfing, or diving.

Reporting Unusual Behavior and Broader Implications

The City of Cape Town has provided several contact numbers for the public to report any unusual seal behavior. These contact points include:

  • Cape Town: City of Cape Town at 021 480 7700, Cape of Good Hope SPCA at 021 700 4140
  • West Coast: CapeNature at 083 236 2924
  • Overberg: CapeNature at 083 236 2924
  • Southern Cape: Plett Stranding Hotline at 079 463 4837, CapeNature at 044 533 2125
  • Eastern Cape: Bay World Stranding Hotline at 071 724 2122
  • Table Mountain National Park at 021 783 0234

This concerted effort aligns with global actions to combat rabies, a viral disease that has affected humans and animals for centuries. Belonging to the Lyssavirus genus, rabies can cause acute encephalitis in its hosts. The historical and cultural significance of rabies is substantial, influencing everything from ancient literature to modern horror films.

Louis Pasteur’s development of the rabies vaccine in the late 19th century revolutionized rabies prevention and laid the groundwork for modern prophylactic measures. Despite this progress, rabies remains a significant public health issue, particularly in areas with limited healthcare resources.

The Role of Marine Biology and Interdisciplinary Efforts

The discovery of rabies in Cape Fur Seals opens new research avenues in marine biology. The health of marine mammals has gained increasing attention, especially with the rise of zoonotic diseases—those that transfer from animals to humans. The Cape Fur Seal, native to the south and southwest coastlines of Africa, plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem. Understanding how rabies affects these seals could provide valuable insights into the virus’s adaptability and evolution.

Cape Town’s collaborative approach with various partners highlights a growing trend in wildlife conservation and public health. The cooperation among government agencies, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions is essential in tackling complex ecological and health challenges. This model could serve as an example for other regions facing similar issues.

Public education and awareness are vital components of managing this crisis. Health campaigns that inform and empower communities can significantly reduce the risk of disease transmission. By promoting a culture of vigilance and responsibility, authorities can better manage the interaction between humans and wildlife.

A Global Call to Action on World Rabies Day

As World Rabies Day is observed, the focus extends beyond Cape Town, serving as a reminder of the ongoing global struggle against rabies and the importance of intersectoral collaboration. Whether through vaccination campaigns, public education, or scientific research, every effort contributes to the goal of eradicating this ancient yet persistent disease.

The fight against rabies underscores our interconnectedness with the natural world and challenges us to reconsider our interactions with wildlife. On this World Rabies Day, the commitment to protecting both human and animal health is renewed, recognizing that our well-being is intricately linked to the health of our planet.

Unified efforts and shared knowledge propel us closer to a world where rabies is no longer a threat. Although the journey may be long, the objective remains clear: a future free from the burden of rabies.

“`markdown

What is the current situation regarding rabies in Cape Fur Seals in Cape Town?

Since May 2024, there have been 24 confirmed cases of rabies in Cape Fur Seals in Cape Town, marking the virus as endemic in this species. This alarming situation prompts beachgoers to avoid close contact with seals and to report any unusual behavior.

What should I do if I am bitten or scratched by a seal?

If you are bitten or scratched by a seal, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Health officials recommend Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) for rabies, which is essential for anyone exposed to a potentially rabid animal.

Are there any public health measures in place to manage the rabies outbreak?

The City of Cape Town has implemented a Rabies in Cape Fur Seals Response Plan in collaboration with various organizations. This plan aims to mitigate the impact of rabies on the seal population and reduce the risk of human exposure.

How can I protect my pets from rabies?

It is essential to keep your pets’ rabies vaccinations up to date. Additionally, pet owners should avoid allowing their dogs to approach seals or any coastal wildlife to prevent potential transmission of the virus.

What should I do if I observe unusual behavior in seals?

If you notice any unusual or aggressive behavior in seals, you should retreat to a safe distance. You can also report such behavior to the appropriate authorities using the contact numbers provided by the City of Cape Town.

How does this rabies outbreak affect marine biology and public health?

The emergence of rabies in Cape Fur Seals highlights the growing concern over zoonotic diseases—those that transfer from animals to humans. Understanding this outbreak can provide valuable insights into disease adaptability and evolution, and emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary efforts in wildlife conservation and public health.
“`

Previous Story

Airlink’s Expansion Elevates African Air Travel: New Routes to Beira, Dar es Salaam, and Gaborone

Next Story

Celebrating 75 Years of the People’s Republic of China: A Testament to Enduring Sino-South African Relations

Latest from Blog

The South African Rand’s Historic Plunge: A Reflection of Political and Economic Turmoil

In 2025, the South African Rand took a historic nosedive, reaching its lowest point ever against the euro and pound. Political chaos from a controversial national budget, along with new US tariffs, caused panic among investors, leading them to pull money out of the country. On April 9, the rand fell to R21.81/€ and above R25/£, creating a wave of uncertainty and rising inflation in South Africa. This crisis reflects not only economic struggles but also the deep political issues within the nation, urging everyone to unite for a better future.

South Africa’s VAT Controversy: A Battle for Economic Stability and Social Justice

South Africa is facing a heated debate over a proposed increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) from 15% to 16% by 2026. The government believes this hike is necessary to fund vital services like health and education but promises to help lowincome families with expanded social grants and zerorated food items. However, this plan has met fierce opposition from the Democratic Alliance party, which argues it will unfairly burden the poor. As tensions rise within the coalition government, this issue reflects deeper struggles for fairness and justice in a nation still healing from past inequalities. The outcome of this tax increase could change the way South Africa balances economic needs with social responsibility.

Envisioning Hope: The “And yet we imagine” Exhibition

The “And yet we imagine” exhibition at the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation in Cape Town is a vibrant celebration of creativity and hope. Running until May 2, 2025, it showcases diverse art forms, from poetry to performance, all aimed at inspiring a sustainable future. Visitors can join workshops and discussions, sharing their own dreams for a better world. This exhibition calls on everyone to imagine together, highlighting the power of art to spark change and unite communities in facing our biggest challenges. It’s a beautiful reminder that, even in tough times, we can dream of a brighter tomorrow.

Controversy Surrounds New Orleans’ Mardi Gras Zulu Parade

The Zulu Parade at New Orleans’ Mardi Gras is causing a stir because many South Africans find its imagery offensive. Features like blackface and outdated stereotypes upset people who feel their rich culture is being disrespected. While the parade aims to celebrate African American heritage, it blurs the line between honoring and appropriating Zulu culture. This controversy highlights how important it is to understand and respect different traditions, reminding us to think carefully about how we represent others. Ultimately, it’s a call for more empathy and dialogue in our diverse world.

Navigating Cybersecurity: Lessons from the Cell C Data Breach

The Cell C data breach is a big wakeup call about how important cybersecurity is in our digital lives. It shows that companies need to teach their users how to protect their personal information and be clear about what’s happening when things go wrong. After the breach, Cell C stepped up by creating an Information Hub to help users understand cyber threats and encouraging them to sign up for Protective Registration to guard against fraud. This situation reminds us that staying safe online is not just about technology; it’s also about being smart and aware.