ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS - SANParks has once again issued a warning to the public to avoid contact with seals - dead or alive - along the Western and Northern Cape coastlines.
This amid an outbreak of rabies that has become established and persistent within seal populations along these shores.
SANParks head of communications JP Louw said it is the first time that a disease has become endemic in a marine mammal population. He added that no rabies have thus far been found in other marine mammal species.
Highly contagious
"Rabies is a serious concern in Cape fur seals, particularly due to their social nature and frequent close-contact interactions with humans, increasing the risk of transmission," Louw said.
The disease is highly contagious and is primarily spread through bites, scratches or contact with saliva from an infected animal.
"The virus is transmitted when saliva from an infected seal enters the body of another animal or human, typically through broken skin or mucous membranes," he explained.
In the light of this, Louw reminded the public that seals are wild animals that should not be touched. In the event of being bitten, he advised cleaning the wound thoroughly and seeking immediate medical attention at a hospital.
Report unusual behaviour
SANParks is responsible for keeping an eye out for any unusual seal behaviour, whether overly aggressive or very tame, to immediately report such behaviour and take appropriate action. Simultaneously, the public, especially water users, are advised to be cautious when visiting coastal areas and urged to report any unusual seal behaviour.
Beachgoers and water users may contact the offices of SANParks to report related incidents.
West Coast National Park: Contact 022 772 2144 between 08:00 and 16:00 (Mon – Fri) or standby number 063 876 3566 from 16:00 to 08:00 daily to report incidents.
Table Mountain National Park Marine Unit: Telephone: 021 783 0234 (after hours the SANParks TMNP emergency number is 086 110 6417).
For more information, please visit https://www.nicd.ac.za/rabies-and-seals-in-south-africa-what-you-need-to-know/.
Also read:
- Two seal attacks at Santos Beach
- Caution advised after seal rabies outbreak spreads to Garden Route
- What everyone should know about animal bites
- Seal euthanised after aggressive behaviour
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