A recent surveillance report from the Public Health Bulletin is sounding the alarm on rabies, urging heightened awareness and preventative measures countrywide.
The report underscores that rabies is a nearly always fatal viral disease, transmitted primarily through the saliva of infected animals, predominantly dogs, and remains a significant health threat.
Rabies
According to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NCID), the disease remains a serious public health threat in provinces including the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Limpopo.
“In KZN, there’s been one probable human rabies case this year from a domestic dog bite and across the rest of the country. We’ve seen three confirmed cases – two in Limpopo and one in the Eastern Cape,” said the NICD’s Vuyiswa Khumalo.
She further explained preventative measures to prevent fatality.
“The most important way to prevent rabies transmission is through vaccination. That starts with vaccinating your pets, especially dogs and cats. It’s not only important, it’s actually the law.
“If someone is bitten or scratched by an animal, here’s what they should do: firstly, wash the wound immediately, with soap and water for at least 15 minutes, then go to a healthcare facility.”
In other news – Watch: Vusi Nova hosts late Zahara’s family in his house
Well-known Mzansi singer Vusi Nova extends the love he has for the late Zahara to her family. Zahara, real name Bulelwa Mkutukana, died December 11, 2023, after battling liver complications.
The South African musician hosted the family of the late singer, who was his best friend, at his home. Taking to social media, Vusi shared a video of Zahara’s family dining with him. Read More
