Four arrested as Rabies in Cape Fur Seals spreads at Hout Bay Harbour
Authorities warn that rabies in Cape Fur Seals is a serious public health risk after four people were arrested for illegally feeding and harassing seals at Hout Bay Harbour.
Officials urge public to keep their distance
Rabies spreads through bites, scratches or saliva contact with broken skin and can be fatal to humans and animals. Infected seals may act aggressively, approach people or behave erratically in the water or on land.
“Feeding or touching seals is not only illegal, it is extremely dangerous,” said Belinda Abraham, spokesperson for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA. She urged residents to respect wildlife, maintain distance and report distressed animals to the SPCA wildlife team.
The SPCA is working with several authorities. The public can call 021 700 4158/9 for help with injured or distressed seals. Rabies-related cases should be reported to the state veterinarian or CapeNature on 083 236 2924 or estuaries@capenature.co.za.
What to do if bitten or scratched
Anyone bitten or scratched should wash the wound with soap and water for at least 15 minutes and seek urgent medical care.
“Rabies has no early symptoms, and once symptoms appear, the disease is almost always fatal,” Abraham said. “Getting prompt treatment is essential.”
City monitors seal colonies closely
Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews said the City and its partners conduct regular surveillance at seal colonies and respond to all reports of abnormal seal behaviour.
He said feeding seals falls under the National Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment’s Marine Threatened and Protected Species Regulations. The City has assisted DFFE and the SPCA Wildlife Unit in taking action against people who feed seals. DFFE has installed signage warning visitors that feeding seals,or paying someone to feed them,is an offence.
Harassing coastal wildlife, including seals, violates the City’s coastal by-law. Andrews said law enforcement officers respond to reported cases and act against offenders.
Public reminded to protect marine wildlife
Andrews urged the public to keep dogs away from seals and observe marine animals from a safe distance. Anyone bitten by a seal should inform their doctor that it was a seal bite.
According to Andrews, officials have confirmed 81 rabies cases in Cape Fur Seals across the Western Cape in the past three years, highlighting the need for vigilance.
