Suspected rabies in Cape fur seal pup

Описание: From the colonies to the coastlines, rabies is spread through saliva, and in the final stages of the disease, it can appear as though rabid animals are 'programmed' by the virus to bite one another. Rabid animals come in all shapes and sizes. The most vulnerable seals at the colonies are perhaps more prone to being bitten, and newly born Cape fur seal pups are no exception.

Never has it been more important to give wildlife the space it needs, to observe from a distance only, and to call the authorities if you see a sick or weak animal. Do not approach, and do not let your dogs interact; if they are bitten or scratched, it could be a death sentence for your beloved pet. An infected pup may seem more approachable—less of a threat compared to an adult seal—but please don't be fooled; they are still strong, their teeth are sharp, and a sick animal is unpredictable. A bite is a bite—however cute the animal might appear.

Rabies in developing countries is almost exclusively transmitted to humans through interactions (bites, licks, scratches) with rabid dogs. Children are disproportionately affected. Why? Because kids playing in the streets and villages are more likely to encounter stray dogs infected with the virus and less likely to report this to an adult. Additionally, the cost of post-exposure prophylaxis can be prohibitively high on a speculative basis.

However, a child exposed and untreated is more than likely to succumb to rabies, and each year around 60,000 people, mostly in developing countries, die from this disease. Once infected, and clinical signs are apparent, there is no cure.

Let's get informed, look after our wildlife and our children, and protect each other from this disease. Do not approach a seal on the beach—if it's healthy, it will return to the water of its own accord. If it appears sick, call the authorities. Send a location pin, and if possible, a photo or, better still, a short video.

Ensure your dogs are vaccinated, and share this video far and wide to educate our communities. If your child or anyone you know has been bitten by a dog or seal, please seek treatment for rabies straight away. There is no cost greater than the cost of a life that could have been saved.

We want to protect wildlife AND people from the rabies virus.

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