A FOURTH rabies death in the province has been confirmed by the KZN Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
The latest victim is a 39-year old man from the Vryheid area.
Test results revealed that the man’s death was due to a rabid dog bite.
The victim lived in a settlement outside the town and had been bitten by his own dog, which, unbeknown to him, had been infected with the virus.
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The man sought medical attention for the dog bite, but because he had not done so within 48 hours of being bitten, it was too late to prevent his death.
Treatment for rabies is 100% effective, but it is critical that the patient receives the treatment within 24 hours, and no longer than 48 hours after being bitten.
Rabies symptoms only start manifesting between four weeks and two months after infection.
Rabies is regarded as an educational problem, an awareness problem, a resources problem and a larger societal problem.
Owners should get their dogs vaccinated and as a precaution should avoid contact with stray dogs.
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