The National Sea Rescue Institute is urging ocean users to exercise caution around Cape fur seals following growing concerns about rabies infections along Cape Town’s coastlines, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Authorities say that while seal encounters are typically harmless, unusual and aggressive behaviour has been observed in some colonies, with more than 90 confirmed rabies cases recorded in Cape Town’s waters over the past two years.
According to Gregg Oelofse from the City’s Coastal Management department, the true number is likely higher, with the disease now considered endemic in the population.
‘We know with certainty that the disease is now endemic in the Cape fur seal population. 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,’ said Oelofse, noting a recent flare-up in the Hout Bay area.
Authorities have already responded to incidents, including one involving kayakers in Hout Bay, where a suspected rabid seal was located and humanely euthanised. A second infected seal was later identified and euthanised at Duiker Island as part of ongoing monitoring efforts.
‘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,’ he explained.
The NSRI has adapted its operations in response to the evolving risk. Darren Zimmerman, NSRI Station Commander in Simon’s Town, said rescue teams now carry dedicated seal bite treatment kits and follow strict safety protocols when operating in high-risk areas.
‘One of the key initiatives has been the introduction of dedicated seal bite treatment kits on rescue vessels and at rescue stations,’ he said.
Volunteers have also been advised to avoid in-water training in areas with high seal activity and to remain vigilant for unusual behaviour.
For the public, the rescue institute is urging locals and visitors to enjoy the Mother City’s remarkable marine wildlife, but at a safe distance.
Ocean users are advised to look out for certain behaviours that are considered to be warning signs of possible rabies infection, including:
- Unprovoked aggression
- Biting objects
- Repeated attempts to approach people, dogs or boats
- Signs of disorientation
- Erratic movement, uncontrolled twitching and head bobbing
- Foaming at the mouth
‘The single most important sign is unusual aggression and biting of foreign objects,’ Oelofse emphasised.
In cases of encounters, ocean users are advised to remain calm, keep boards or boats between themselves and the seal, exit the water if necessary, and avoid interacting with seals. Dogs should also be kept away from the animals at all times.
In the event of a bite or contact with seal saliva, even if minor, individuals should wash the wound thoroughly for at least 15 minutes and seek immediate medical attention, as rabies poses a serious health risk.
The NSRI and City officials are calling on the public to report any suspicious behaviour to emergency services (NSRI – 087 094 9774 | CoCT – 021 480 7700), stressing that awareness and early action are key to protecting both people and wildlife.
Also read:
NSRI saves unmanned sailing yacht from rocky shore in Simons Town
Picture: Jörg Hamel / Pexels
