NSRI issues new safety warning amid rabies increase in Cape fur seals

The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has issued another safety warning regarding the rise in rabies cases among Cape fur seals.

There are over 90 confirmed cases in Cape Town’s waters alone since testing started two years ago, but the numbers are likely to be much higher, says Gregg Oelofse of the City of Cape Town’s Coastal Management Department.

They know with certainty that the disease is now endemic in the Cape Fur Seal population, he says.

"What we experience on the ground is what the vets call a ‘slow burn with flares’. In other words, the presence of the disease is low but constant, and we see periodic flare-ups in seal colonies."

Most recently, a flare-up has been seen in the Hout Bay area.

Following a recent incident involving a seal and kayakers, that animal was located and humanely euthanised. Ongoing colony surveillance then led to the euthanasia of a second rabid seal at Duiker Island.

The City's focus has been on 'a fast, humane response' to protect both people and wildlife once a seal suspected of rabies is reported.

"The aim is to remove symptomatic seals as quickly and humanely as possible to limit the public risk, reduce transmission to other seals, and end the suffering of the animal.”

The NSRI has also adapted its operations to address this evolving risk, stepping up crew awareness and introducing seal bite treatment kits on rescue vessels and at rescue stations.

Red flags for possible rabies infection in seals:

• Highly aggressive, unprovoked behaviour in the water or on the beach
• Attacking or biting foreign objects such as rocks, plastics, buoys, kelp or boats
• Repeated attempts to get onto a craft
• Charging towards people or dogs

If you see a seal that appears unusually aggressive or unwell, the safest action is to keep your distance and call it in.

Advice for kayakers, surfers and swimmers:

• Remain calm and avoid escalating the situation

• Exit the water calmly and quickly
• Keep boards or boats between yourself and the animal
• Warn others, and report the incident

In the case of a seal bite or scratch, however minor, the wound should be washed thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes.

The person should then immediately seek medical attention because of the high risk of infection and the need for possible rabies post-exposure treatment.

The public is urged to report any aggressive seal behaviour.

Contact numbers:

• NSRI emergency - 087 094 9774
• CoCT emergency call centre - 021 480 7700