An unconfirmed case of rabies was reported in Kalkheuwel, close to Hartebeespoort Dam on 10 May.
According to Kalkheuwel Veterinary Clinic, who was informed by a local resident, a jackal died on the owners’ property and rabies was said to be the cause of its death.
The News understands that no rabies notification has been issued by a state veterinary clinic.
According to the Rustenburg State Veterinary Clinic, rabies is a state handled disease and such a clinic should therefore be informed of rabies cases.
On 11 May, Conserv Security posted on their Facebook page that the jackal was found dead on the east of Kalkheuwel and confirmed to be a rabies case.
“All residents are encouraged to have their pets vaccinated. Report any animal suspected of having rabies symptoms to the State Vet immediately,” it read.
According to the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, rabies is a deadly disease that is caused by a virus which attacks the nervous system of warm blooded mammals, including humans.
According to the department, infected dogs show a change in temperament, attack and bite anything, they show an exaggerated response to sound and light, they are restless, nervous and snap at imaginary flying insects. Dogs are often disorientated and wander aimlessly around with drooling saliva. Eventually these dogs have uncoordinated actions and show progressive paralysis.
Cats are generally aggressive, show frothing at the mouth and vocalise abnormally.
Wild animals lose their fear of humans and appear to be tame. The disease usually end in the death of the infected animal, the department said.
Even though the reports of rabies in Kalkheuwel is unconfirmed, a warning message has been posted on social media.
If you want to report a case of rabies, contact your nearest state veterinarian. The closest state vet is in Randfontein on 011 411 4300. You can also contact the National Institute for Communicable Diseases Human Rabies helpline on 082 883 9920.
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