First Rabies Outbreak in Seals Confirmed in South Africa

First Rabies Outbreak in Seals Confirmed in South Africa

Scientists in South Africa have reported a significant outbreak of rabies in Cape fur seals, marking the first instance of the virus spreading among marine mammals. At least 24 seals were found dead or euthanized, all testing positive for rabies, according to state veterinarian Dr. Lesley van Helden.

Rabies is a viral disease that primarily affects mammals, often fatal once symptoms appear. The virus spreads through saliva, mainly via bites, but can also be transmitted through grooming behaviors. Traditionally, rabies has been observed in land animals like raccoons and foxes, but this outbreak in seals is unprecedented.

The discovery began in June after a dog was bitten by a seal on a Cape Town beach and subsequently contracted rabies. This incident led researchers to test 135 seal carcasses collected since 2021, revealing that the virus had likely been present for at least two years.

Scientists believe the virus may have been transmitted to seals from jackals in Namibia, where these animals hunt seal pups. Genetic analysis shows a close relationship between the rabies virus found in seals and that in black-backed jackals.

Authorities are concerned about the potential for rabies to spread among seal populations, especially since seals often interact with humans along South Africa’s coast. Cape Town officials have begun vaccinating seals in two local harbors, although it remains uncertain how effective the vaccine will be in seals, as it has never been tested on them.

While experts are monitoring the situation, there are still many unknowns regarding the long-term implications of this outbreak. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is watching closely but has not yet seen clear evidence that this will become a persistent issue.

Source: Africa News