| PRESS STATEMENT CONFIRMED CASE OF RABIES IN PROTEA NORTH.
A case of rabies in a dog has been confirmed in Protea North, Soweto.
For 5 years, a Protea North family enjoyed the company and security provided by their loyal dog. Little did they know that things could change. On 23/10/2010 the dog became more excited than ever – running up and down in the yard, then without warning, became aggressive towards the owners – growling at them at every turn. The dog then started viciously attacking people at home, biting two brothers and threatening their mother. This dog had never been vaccinated against rabies. The dog was destroyed and tested for rabies – it was confirmed to be rabid. The two brothers that were bitten by this dog immediately went to the clinic and were given life saving treatment.
What is Rabies? Rabies is a disease affecting the brain and can lead to the death of the person or animal involved. Symptoms vary widely and include: behavioral changes, aggressiveness, excessive salivation, open mouth as if it has a bone in the mouth and paralysis. Symptoms can occur from 7 days to 6 months (depending on method of exposure), after infection with the virus. The virus occurs in great numbers in the saliva of rabid animals. Never touch or caress a strange, injured animal or one, which appears to be sick.
How to Control Rabies · Vaccination of cats and dogs is the only protection available. · Encourage your neighbours and friends to have their pets vaccinated too. · Do not allow your pet to roam the streets.
The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development wishes to re-emphasize the following:
Ø It is compulsory for all dogs and cats to be vaccinated against rabies. Failure to vaccinate domestic pets is illegal and is a public health risk. Ø Members of the public should not touch or caress a strange, injured animal or an animal which appears to be sick. Ø Any person or domestic pet, which may have been bitten by strange animals during the last 4 weeks, are a risk of having contracted rabies. This should be reported immediately to your Local State Veterinarian (011-821-7700 / 011 411 4300) or your local clinic.
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