The eThekwini Municipality urges the public to vaccinate pets against rabies. Picture: File image.
The eThekwini Municipality urges residents to vaccinate their pets against rabies following the death of a three-year-old child in Ngonyameni.
As part of the city’s mass campaign, free rabies vaccinations will be provided in Chatsworth and Shallcross from September 23 to 25.
Gugu Sisilana, the city’s spokesperson, said the child had been in contact with a dog suspected of being infected with rabies.
She said after exhibiting symptoms such as fatigue and a sore throat, the child passed away.
“The city’s communicable diseases team discovered that the child had been in contact with a sick dog during their investigation. They also learnt that the dog had become aggressive and was put down by the owner.
“Rabies in humans can present with symptoms such as headaches, fever, mental confusion, irritability, restlessness, and muscle pain, among others. The disease is extremely dangerous, but it is preventable,” she said.
Sisilana added that immediate action, such as thoroughly washing any bite wound with running water and seeking prompt medical attention for a rabies vaccination, are crucial no matter how small the wound may seem.
"The city’s communicable diseases teams are working closely with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to curb the spread of rabies,” she said.
Free rabies vaccination campaigns will also be held in the KwaMas’xha and Ridgeview areas from September 10 to 13.
“Residents are strongly encouraged to participate and ensure their pets are vaccinated,” said Sisilana.
For more information on the campaigns, contact the eThekwini State Vet Office on 031 328 9300
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