28/09/2025
🐾 Rabies in South Africa – What You Need to Know
Rabies is a serious but preventable viral disease that affects both humans and animals. In South Africa, rabies is considered endemic, meaning cases occur every year, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga.
👉 How rabies spreads:
Through the bite, scratch, or lick of an infected dog, cat, or wild animal (such as mongooses and jackals).
Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal.
👉 Who is most at risk?
Children, as they are more likely to play with animals and may not report bites or scratches.
People living in rural and farming communities, where vaccination coverage in dogs may be lower.
👉 Prevention is possible!
Vaccinate your pets (dogs and cats) – it’s free at government clinics and compulsory by law in South Africa under the Animal Diseases Act.
Seek medical care immediately after any animal bite or scratch – post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can save your life.
Educate children to avoid playing with stray or unknown animals.
💉 Remember: Rabies is 100% preventable with vaccination, but once symptoms start, there is no cure.
Let’s work together to keep our families, pets, and communities safe. Report suspected rabid animals to your local vet or state veterinarian immediately.
Get vaccinated at OHMEDSA Clinic. Call us on 0431110938 for more information.
