The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) recently conducted an anti-rabies vaccination drive in Wells Estate, following a resident testing positive for rabies, after he was bitten by a stray dog.
NMBM principal environmental health practitioner, Fay Meltz, said Wells Estate was chosen because of its proximity to the Bluewater Bay area, where a positive rabies case was identified in January.
“This campaign includes the education of the residents on the prevention of zoonotic diseases at household level. The public health directorate appreciates the partnership with the Department of Agriculture in safeguarding the health status of the local community during the challenging COVID-19 era,” Meltz said.
Animal health technician, Donovan Seaward, said, “We have noticed that the breeds of dogs common in this community are Africanis, German shepherds, pit bulls, boerboels and Rottweilers. Among the diseases we have seen are mange and tick infestations, and also a few cases of distemper.
“We have vaccinated for those diseases using both rabies vaccine and dovertec.”
Community members have welcomed this campaign, saying it would save many lives, as rabies may kill people, too.
Resident, Thozama Mahambehlala, said that she had decided to get her two dogs, Fifi and Chiefs, vaccinated to ensure that they remain in good health. “I use soap to wash them twice a week.”
