The Muldersdrift/Lanseria rabies outbreak has claimed five animal lives in the last month and Conserv Security owner, Trevor Roberts, who is keeping the community updated, said he is concerned that the virus has spread to other species.
It was confirmed that a cow died today, 9 June, because of rabies along with another jackal, Roberts said.
On Friday (3 June) a rabid dog was confirmed, according to Roberts, as the first sign of the virus in Muldersdift in a domestic animal.
“According to many local residents this is the worst outbreak in living memory,” he said.
In order to ensure that there is a high degree of immunity against rabies among the pet population, the Gauteng Veterinary Services will have a booster vaccination campaign in and around the affected areas:
13 June
• Muldersdrift Liquor Store from noon until 4pm
• Lanseria Riverside Estate Gate from noon until 4pm
14 June
• Lion Park from 8.30am until 11am
• Lanseria Informal Settlement at the Thabo Mbeki Taxi Rank from noon until 4pm
• Zandspruit Informal Settlement from noon until 4pm
15 June
• Lion and Rhino Park entrance from 8.30am until 10am
Pet owners can expect no cost for the veterinary services and are encouraged to bring their dogs and cats for vaccination.
The Directorate of Veterinary Services is confident that with the help of municipalities, other animal welfare organisations, as well as the public, the “serious” situation can soon be brought under control.If you would like more information of the campaigns contact the State Veterinarian Office in Randfontein on 011 411 4300.
The Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said previously reported cases of rabies were in 2015 in Helderkruin and Mindalore found in domestic animals.
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