The Department of Agriculture has warned the public about rabies in South Africa, affecting dogs, Cape fur seals, and other mammals. Human deaths from rabies have already been reported in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and Limpopo this year.
Image: Gemini
South Africa has recorded 15 human rabies deaths so far this year, as the Department of Agriculture urged communities to work together to prevent the spread of the deadly but preventable disease.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the department said South Africa would join the global community in marking World Rabies Day on September 28 under the theme, “Stronger Together”, which highlights the need for collaboration between communities, animal and human health sectors, government and international partners to eliminate rabies.
The statement alarmingly revealed that as of August 26, South Africa had recorded 15 human rabies deaths since the beginning of 2026.
These included seven confirmed and two probable cases in the Eastern Cape, five confirmed cases in KwaZulu-Natal and one confirmed case in Limpopo.
The department said rabies remained a serious threat across all nine provinces, with hotspots in Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape.
Between January 1 and July 31, a total of 115 laboratory-positive animal rabies cases were reported across the country.
Agriculture Minister Willie Aucamp said preventing rabies required responsible pet ownership, vaccination and prompt action after possible exposure to the disease.
“Rabies is one of the world’s deadliest yet most preventable diseases. No one should lose their life to a disease we know how to prevent,” Aucamp said.
“Vaccinating dogs and cats, practising responsible pet ownership, reporting suspected cases and seeking prompt medical care after potential exposure are essential to preventing deaths.”
Aucamp added that South Africans could be “Stronger Together” in the fight against rabies by taking responsibility for their pets and acting quickly when there was a possible exposure.
The Department of Agriculture said South African stakeholders were working through the National Rabies Advisory Group to raise awareness about the disease and its impact on both animal and public health.
Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but the department stressed that the disease can be prevented.
Pet owners have been urged to ensure that dogs and cats are regularly vaccinated to protect animals, families and communities.
The department also warned that any mammal could contract rabies, including pets, livestock, wildlife and humans.
South Africa recorded 15 rabies deaths this year so far.
Image: Supplied/Department of Agriculture
Anyone bitten, scratched or licked by a potentially rabid animal should immediately wash the affected area with soap and running water for at least 10 minutes before seeking medical attention.
The department said post-exposure treatment could prevent rabies if it was given promptly and correctly.
Communities were also urged to report suspected rabies cases and prevent the movement of unvaccinated animals, which could contribute to the spread of the disease.
The Department of Agriculture encouraged people seeking advice on rabies prevention or vaccination to contact their local state or private veterinarian, animal health technician or animal welfare organisation.
The department said communities, pet owners, veterinary professionals, healthcare workers, government departments and other organisations all had a role to play in eliminating rabies.
“Through stronger collaboration and coordinated action, we can prevent rabies, protect lives and move closer to a rabies-free South Africa and world,” the department said.
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