19 November 2025 Media Release: Rabies reports in South Africa
Media Release: Rabies reports in South Africa
19 November 2025
In South Africa, the highest rabies fatalities have historically been reported in Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, and the Free State/Lesotho border, mainly resulting from infected dog bites. According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), numerous cases of rabies were confirmed in Cape fur seals along the Western Cape shoreline in May 2024.
Rabies is a fatal zoonotic viral disease but is 100% preventable through the vaccination of pets and the administration of rabies post-exposure prophylaxis after contact with a suspected rabid animal. It is transmitted to humans through bites and scratches from infected animals. There is no cure for rabies once a person or animal begins to show clinical signs.
Legally, every pet owner must have their dogs and cats vaccinated to protect both humans and animals against rabies.
Image credit: Department of Agriculture
For more information enquire with your local state or private veterinarian, animal health technician or welfare organisation. Contact details of the State Veterinarian in our district: Tel 044 8735527
For any additional information regarding this article, or to report any incidents, please contact:
Mr Johan Compion
Manager: Municipal Health & Environmental Services
E-mail: info@gardenroute.gov.za
Tel: 044 803 1300 / Cell: 082 803 5161
DID YOU KNOW?
 “Rabies is a preventable tragedy, and we have the power to stop it. By vaccinating our pets and raising awareness within our communities, we can mitigate the factors that allow this deadly virus to spread.”
 Related Articles:
https://www.gardenroute.gov.za/2018/11/16/awareness-rabies/
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