WARNING OF RABIES OUTBREAK, OWNERS URGED TO VACCINATE DOGS
The Municipality is calling upon residents to take note of a rabies outbreak. We can sadly confirm the passing of a five year old from Reeston as a result of rabbies following a dog bite.

We are currently investigating two active cases in the Metro.

We are undertaking a vaccination drive to vaccinate dogs in various parts of the Metro.

This is a joint drive together with the Department of Agriculture and Agrarian Reform (Veterinary Services) in collaboration with the Metro’s Municipal Health Services, Disaster Management and Public Participation.

The first vaccination took place at NU 3 in Mdantsane today.

The vaccination teams are not stationed in one place but move street by street to be accessible to dog owners or those that are at home at the time.

We call upon dog owners to observe all the signs that are associated with rabbies in domestic animals which includes aggressiveness, biting and drooling.

What are rabies? A deadly virus spread to people from the saliva of infected animals. Rabies is usually spread through an animal bite. Animals most likely to spread rabies include dogs, bats, coyotes, foxes, skunks and raccoons.

Symptoms on humans include fever, headache, excess salivation, muscle spasms, paralysis and mental confusion.

Seek immediate medical attention after a bite or suspected bite.

Once symptoms appear, it's nearly always fatal. A vaccine can prevent infection.

The planned vaccination programme is as follows:

DATE; AREA

16/09/2021

Mdantsane Nu 3

17/09/2021

Mdantsane Nu 4

21/09/2021

Mdantsane Nu 5,10,11

22/09/2021

Reston/ Scenery Park

23/09/2021

Duncan Village, Zipunzana, Buffalo Flats, Gompo

28/09/2021

Park side/ Vergenoeg, Orange Groove, Greenfield

05/10/2021

Bongweni, Santa, Amagali Abomvu, Sunny Ridge, West Bank

06/10/2021

Pamure, Beacon Bay/Nompumelelo, Gonubie, Santini, Ducats

07/10/2021

Kwelerha

All Villages

08/10/2021

Great Kei

All Villages

2021-09-20