High-risk rabies areas revealed: Protect yourself and your pets

The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) has warned those travelling to high-risk rabies areas. Rabies is a serious and deadly virus for both humans and animals. The DALRRD press statement stated that the coastal areas of KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape are most at risk. There has been an increase in rabies among humans this year in South Africa so locals and travellers must exercise caution against the fatal disease.

Although dangerous, rabies is 100% preventable. Only a few humans have survived the infection, making it essential that South Africans take precautions when travelling to high-risk areas for the festive season. Here’s how to prevent the disease in humans and pets.

WHERE ARE THE HIGH-RISK AREAS FOR RABIES?

According to the press release, the high-risk areas for rabies include KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga. The public was advised to take precautions when travelling between the Free State Province and the Lesotho border, as well as the coastal areas of KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape. South Africans are advised to not approach stray dogs or cats from these areas.

ALSO READ: Do indoor cats need rabies shots?

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR PETS AGAINST RABIES?

Rabies vaccination can prevent pets from contracting the infection. Even pets that are kept indoors should be vaccinated as a precaution. As per the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, cats and dogs need to be vaccinated from 12 weeks old. Additional yearly boosters should then be administered. Pet owners should supervise pets who are outdoors at all times. Smaller pets such as guinea pigs cannot be vaccinated so they should be kept away from wild animals.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF IN HIGH-RISK RABIES AREAS?

There is no cure for rabies so prevention is crucial for humans. Rabies is spread through the saliva of infected animals. Avoid touching or approaching stray dogs and cats in high-risk areas. According to Mayo Clinic, pets and farm animals likely to spread the disease include cats, cows, dogs, goats and horses, among others. The Department of Health stated that those bitten or scratched by an infected animal need to have rabies vaccinations promptly to prevent infection.

ALSO READ: How do cats get rabies?

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF RABIES

Rabies manifest in humans as typical flu symptoms and later progresses as serious symptoms develop. According to Mayo Clinic, symptoms can include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing and partial paralysis. Those who suspect infection should seek medical attention immediately. Rabies symptoms in stray animals can include aggression, drooling, frothing, self-mutilation or muscle paralysis. Report all suspected cases to local veterinarians, SPCA, animal control agencies, or police.

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