The Western Cape Department of Agriculture’s Veterinary Services launched a rabies vaccination campaign in the Mossel Bay area from July 17th to 27th, 2023. The initiative was in response to a significant increase in rabies cases in the Eastern Cape since last year.
Objective of the Campaign
The primary objective of the campaign was to vaccinate at least 70% of the dog population in the Western Cape to prevent the spread of rabies among animals and humans. The campaign focused on less privileged communities that might not have access to private veterinary clinics for preventive treatments.
Importance of Vaccination
Dr. Leana Janse van Rensburg, the George State Veterinarian, stressed the importance of vaccinating healthy dogs and cats from three months old, as rabies is a severe viral disease that affects both animals and humans. She also offered the immunizations free of charge to pet owners in the campaign’s target areas.
Support for the Campaign
Western Cape Minister of Agriculture Dr. Ivan Meyer expressed his support for the campaign, emphasizing the Western Cape Government’s commitment to community safety. He explained that the vaccination of companion animals, such as dogs and cats, is essential to protect both animals and humans from infection.
Awareness of Rabies
Minister Meyer encouraged pet owners to learn more about rabies by visiting a website that provides information on the disease.
Global Strategy
The campaign aligns with the global strategy formed in 2022 by the World Organisation for Animal Health, WHO, and FAO, which aims to eradicate human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030.
Results from Last Year
Last year, the Western Cape Veterinary Services vaccinated a total of 139,580 cats and dogs against rabies. Minister Meyer emphasized that healthy animals and safe communities are essential components of improved food security and safety.
Importance of the Campaign
The Western Cape’s rabies vaccination campaign demonstrates the importance of proactive measures to combat the spread of diseases and protect the health of both animals and humans. By targeting less privileged communities and offering free vaccinations, the campaign aims to create a more inclusive and healthier environment for all residents of the Western Cape.
International Cooperation
The campaign’s alignment with the global strategy to end human deaths from dog-mediated rabies reflects the Western Cape Department of Agriculture’s commitment to international cooperation and shared goals in animal and human health.
Overall, the Western Cape’s rabies vaccination campaign in Mossel Bay represents a vital step towards healthier communities, improved food security, and a safer environment for both animals and humans.
