Rabies vaccination drive 2nd October 2021
Published: September 28, 2021<< BACK TO NEWS
There is currently an outbreak of rabies in dogs in our metro with Motherwell and Northern Areas being high risk areas currently. There was one case in January, one in June and one in July, then the numbers spiked in August to 35 cases but to date has dropped to 20 cases.
Recently two boys passed away, one allegedly from rabies and another after being bitten by a dog.
Rabies, which occurs in domestic animals usually, originates from wild animals. It is the contact between the domestic and wild animals that results in the spread of the infection to domestic animals and subsequently to humans.
Rabies is a viral disease and affects the human population from animal bites (saliva), scratches or handling of infected animals.
As a City we are addressing the situation on an urgent basis and are partnering with South African Veterinarian Association and private veterinarians who will assist the Municipality with a massive anti-rabies vaccination drive programme on the 2nd of October, at the Raymond Mhlaba Sport Centre in Motherwell and Gelvandale Community Hall, Gelvandale from 8am to 4pm.
We are planning to vaccinate about 10 000 dogs on the day, free of charge. Any dog owner in the community whose dog was not vaccinated this year are encouraged to bring their dogs to the vaccination stations.
The number of dogs vaccinated so far across the metro is 5254 and 438 cats and the vaccination and community education program are on-going. The Public Health Directorate is currently conducting health awareness programmes to community members in the area.
This is a very serious situation and we request residents to be vigilant and to avoid contact with dogs roaming in the streets. Residents are also advised to keep their dogs on their property wherever possible. Should anyone notice any signs of aggression in a dog do not attempt to touch it but report it to the Nelson Mandela Municipality.
Education on dog behaviour and bite prevention for both children and adults are viewed as an essential extension of the current rabies vaccination programme and is expected to prevent occurrence of human rabies and the financial burden of treating dog bites. Increasing awareness of rabies prevention and control in the metropolitan area will include education and information on responsible pet ownership, how to prevent dog bites, vaccination of domestic animals and immediate care measures required after a bite.
The following numbers can be contacted for local rabies updates, NMBM Dog Control Unit 041 506 1743 during office hours.
Enquiries:
MMC Public Health
Councillor Lance Grootboom
0732686156.
Issued by the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Communications Office on behalf of Public Health Mayoral Committee Member, Cllr Lance Grootboom.
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