WC Health Dept urges anyone bitten by seal in last 6 months to seek immediate medical attention
The department has warned that if a bite victim received medical treatment at the time, further examination is crucial.
FILE: A Cape Fur Seal sunbathes on the deserted quay at Kalk Bay Harbour in Cape Town on April 14, 2020. Picture: RODGER BOSCH/AFP
CAPE TOWN - The Western Cape Department of Health said anyone who has been bitten by a seal in the last six months must seek medical examination immediately.
The department has warned that if a bite victim received medical treatment at the time, further examination is crucial.
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This came after officials confirmed a rabies outbreak among Cape fur seals along the Cape coast.
The virus can be passed onto humans and other animals through contact with infected animals.
Department spokesperson Dwayne Evans said: "After the recent confirmation of rabies in Cape fur seals along the Western Cape coast, residents and travellers are urged to be cautious when visiting our coastline. Rabies is a serious and often fatal disease."