The Western Cape Department of Agriculture\u2018s Veterinary Services is undertaking a rabies vaccination campaign in the Mossel Bay area from 17 to 27 July 2023.<\/P>
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George State Veterinarian Dr Leana Janse van Rensburg said that since last year there has been an upsurge in outbreaks of rabies in the Eastern Cape.<\/P>
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Dr Janse van Rensburg: \u201cTo prevent rabies circulation in dogs in the Western Cape we are aiming to achieve vaccination of at least 70% of the population.\u201d<\/P>
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The campaign is focused on less privileged communities where animals do not necessarily get taken for preventive treatment at private veterinary clinics.<\/P>
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Dr Janse van Rensburg continued: \u201cOur officials are driving through the areas vaccinating healthy dogs and cats from three months old that are presented by owners against rabies free of charge.<\/P>
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\u201cRabies is a serious viral disease that not only affects animal health but can be spread to humans. This disease is preventable using vaccination,\u201d added Dr Janse van Rensburg.<\/P>
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Commenting on the campaign Western Cape Minister of Agriculture Dr Ivan Meyer said: \u201cThe safety of our communities is a priority for the Western Cape Government. The vaccination of companion animals such as dogs and cats is aimed at protecting animals and humans from being infected by the disease.\u201d<\/P>
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Minister Meyer encouraged pet owners to learn more about rabies by visiting:<\/P>
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https:\/\/www.elsenburg.com\/western-cape\/frequently-asked-questions\/faq-rabies-awareness\/(link is external)<\/P>
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Dr Janse van Rensburg also highlights that in 2022 the World Organisation for Animal Health and WHO & FAO have formed a global strategy to end human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030 http:\/\/rr-africa.woah.org\/en\/our-mission\/contributing-to-the-elimination-of-dog-mediated-human-rabies-deaths-in-africa\/(link is external)<\/P>
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\u201cLast year Western Cape Veterinary Services vaccinated 139 580 cats and dogs against rabies. Healthy animals and safe communities will lead to improved food security and safety\u201d, concluded Minister Meyer.<\/P>
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Media Enquiries:<\/P>
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Daniel Johnson<\/P>
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Spokesperson for Minister Ivan Meyer<\/P>
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Email: Daniel.Johnson@westerncape.gov.za(link sends e-mail)<\/P>
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Cell: 0799904231<\/P>
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Source: Government of South Africa<\/P>
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