Plett Adopts Safety Measures in Response to Seal Rabies
Press Release / Public Service Announcement in conjunction with the Bitou Municipality, CapeNature and the Plett Tourism Association.
As a beach destination in South Africa, Plettenberg Bay is arguably one of the most attractive. However, the recent discovery of rabies in Cape fur seals along the south and western Cape coastlines of South Africa has raised questions among residents and holidaymakers.
To address this, Bitou Municipality, Plett Tourism and CapeNature have issued this statement to clarify what this means for Plett’s beaches this summer and actions to be taken by the public to mitigate any unfortunate encounter and ensure a safe and enjoyable season for all. Bitou Municipality Environmental Manager, Anje Minne, reassures beachgoers that “Bitou’s local beaches remain safe for recreational use, despite the recent discovery of rabies in Cape Fur seals.”
The rabies virus is transmitted through saliva of an infected animal when it bites, scratches or licks a person or another mammal. The virus affects the brain and is fatal once a person or animal shows clinical signs. Animals infected with rabies show changes in behaviour and neurological signs. They may drool a lot, become paralysed, lose the ability to swallow, continuously vocalise (barking, whining, howling etc.), and become aggressive, or on the contrary, they may appear weak and unresponsive. There are rabies vaccinations for both humans and dogs, and Plett’s clinics and vets are prepared for such a scenario.
In June 2024, a rabies outbreak was detected in South African Cape fur seals, a species in which rabies had not been recorded previously. To date, positive samples have originated from the South African coast between Yzerfontein, on the West Coast, around Cape Town and along the coast to Plettenberg Bay. Plettenberg Bay has had four confirmed cases of rabies and one suspected case amongst a population of approximately 8000.
Read the full article on: Plett-Tourism