The Democratic Alliance‘s ward councillor, Lynn Pannall, has expressed concern about the rabies case recently reported in Muldersdrift.
The DA has confirmed that suspected rabies exposure qualifies as an emergency medical condition as defined in the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998.
“A recent report of the death of a confirmed rabid jackal in the Muldersdrift area has sparked concern among communities in Mogale City. The State Veterinary Services is aware of the case and has instituted the appropriate measures,” she said.
Earlier this month, the News reported on an unconfirmed case of rabies in Kalkheuwel, close to Hartebeespoort Dam. According to staff at the Kalkheuwel Veterinary Clinic, who were informed by a local resident, a jackal had allegedly died of rabies on a nearby property.
Conserv Security’s owner, Trevor Roberts, has confirmed that a second case of rabies has been reported, this time in the Muldersdrift area. On Thursday 19 May, Roberts said a jackal had been seen acting strangely and trying to enter a building in the Muldersdrift area.
“The animal was shot and sent to the labs for an autopsy,” he said.
Pannall said the Democratic Alliance urges people not to approach wild animals such as jackal, even if they appear to be tame.
“They remain wild animals. One of the symptoms of rabies in wild animals is that they appear tame and demonstrate unusual behaviour,” she said.
“In such cases, the State Veterinary Services (011 411 4331), local vets or wildlife associations should be contacted. If someone is bitten by an animal, a local health practitioner, clinic or hospital must be visited. The State Veterinary Services must be informed whenever rabies is suspected.
“The rabies virus is a Lyssa virus. When a rabid animal bites a human or other animal, the virus is transmitted via the saliva of the infected animal. The virus causes acute inflammation of the brain in humans and animals. Rabies has no cure and is fatal unless people are vaccinated immediately after exposure. It is essential that the wound is washed with soap and water and iodine whilst waiting for transport to the nearest clinic,” she concluded.
Also read:
• Rabies confirmed, two people allegedly bitten
• Unconfirmed warning of rabies
• Bats not to be feared, but handled with care
