Melkbosstrand beach open after Friday seal attack, authorities urge caution

Melkbosstrand beach remains open and calm, despite reports of a seal attack on Friday evening. TygerBurger was on site on Saturday and observed that conditions were normal, with lifeguards actively monitoring the area and warning signage clearly displayed.

Authorities emphasise that while the beach is accessible, beachgoers should remain vigilant when entering the water.

According to local ward councillor Paul Swart, only one man was bitten in the recent incident. Other reports circulating online reference previous attacks, some of which occurred months or even years ago, and do not reflect the current situation.

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Details of the recent attack

The attack happened on Friday evening, when the man was bitten while swimming. Emergency services attended to the victim, and he received immediate medical care. No other incidents were reported in connection with this event, and the situation at the beach was stable by Saturday. Lifeguards and safety signage remain in place to alert visitors of potential hazards.

A history of seal attacks

Melkbosstrand and nearby Big Bay have seen several seal-related incidents in recent years. In November 2025, TygerBurger reported that Hjalmar Larsen (47), a local surfer, sustained multiple bite wounds while surfing at Big Bay in Bloubergstrand. Larsen received treatment for deep injuries, including anti-rabies injections.

At the time, he described the encounter as sudden and unprovoked: “There was a seal playing in the water about 50 metres away from me. It looked perfectly normal. Then it popped its head out and gave me a dead stare before diving towards me.”

Another attack was recorded in October 2024, when a man sustained a minor bite while participating in an open-water swim at Big Bay. He was advised to clean the wound and visit a hospital for evaluation.

Rabies concerns and public health guidance

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has issued warnings about potential rabies risks along the Western Cape coast. Rabies is a serious viral disease that can be fatal if not treated promptly. Humans can be exposed through bites, scratches, or contact with saliva from infected animals, including seals.

Anyone bitten by a seal is urged to seek medical attention immediately, regardless of whether previous treatment was administered. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which may include rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin, will be determined by medical professionals based on the nature and severity of the bite.

Authorities advise the following precautions:

• Wash any bite or scratch thoroughly with soap and water immediately.

• Seek medical assessment at a hospital, clinic, or emergency centre without delay.

• Avoid interacting with seals or other wild animals.

• Keep pets under control and ensure their rabies vaccinations are up to date.

• Report any unusual or aggressive animal behaviour to the local State Veterinary Office.

Current situation at the beach

While the recent attack is concerning, TygerBurger confirmed on Saturday that Melkbosstrand beach appeared safe for visitors. Lifeguards were on duty, and signage warned swimmers about the potential for wildlife encounters. Swart reiterated that conditions can change quickly, and beachgoers should always take precautions.

The NICD emphasises that prompt medical care following any animal bite is critical. Rabies is preventable with immediate attention, but the disease can progress rapidly if untreated, causing neurological symptoms, coma, and death.

Beachgoers are encouraged to enjoy the coastline responsibly, stay aware of their surroundings, and follow safety instructions from authorities. Previous incidents serve as reminders that while encounters with wildlife are rare, the risk of injury or disease is real and should not be underestimated.