eThekwini Municipality is urging residents to protect themselves and their pets against rabies by ensuring that dogs and cats are vaccinated, as the city marks World Rabies Day, today, 28 September.
According to information shared by the municipality, this year’s National Department of Health theme is “Stronger Together”, with the campaign message: “Wash, Rush, Vaccinate – Towards Zero Deaths by 2030.”
Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects mammals, including domestic animals and humans. The virus occurs in high concentrations in the saliva of infected animals and can be transmitted through bites and other exposure to saliva.
The municipality is encouraging pet owners to have their dogs and cats vaccinated and to ensure that pets do not roam the streets.
Residents are also urged to encourage others to vaccinate their pets and to report suspected cases to the nearest state veterinarian, animal health technician or the police.
The “Wash, Rush, Vaccinate” message highlights the importance of immediate action following possible exposure to rabies. Any wound caused by an animal should be washed thoroughly with soap and running water, followed by seeking urgent medical attention for assessment and appropriate treatment.
As part of World Rabies Day activities, eThekwini Municipality, together with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health and the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, is hosting an awareness event at Umgababa Sports Ground on Monday, 28 September.
The event will run from 9am to 2pm and will include health talks on wound management and first aid, as well as mass dog vaccinations conducted by Veterinary Services and the distribution of information, education and communication (IEC) materials.
The municipality is also offering free vaccination for dogs at the event.
“Vaccination is the only protection” is among the key messages of the campaign, which aims to increase awareness of rabies prevention and contribute towards the goal of eliminating rabies deaths by 2030.
Residents requiring assistance can contact the national rabies hotline on 0800 123 322 or the district contact number on 031 240 5554.
eThekwini Municipality said residents can also visit their nearest clinic or veterinary office for more information.
World Rabies Day is observed annually on 28 September to raise awareness about rabies and promote measures to prevent the disease.
