Rabies-infected seal captured in heartbreaking video

A video shared by Sea Search shows a seal exhibiting unusual behaviour, which has raised concerns among wildlife experts. The erratic movements, aggression and disorientation displayed are all clinical signs of rabies in seals, a deadly viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals.

Rabies in seals is uncommon

Rabies in seals has historically been rare and is most commonly found in wild land-dwelling mammals such as mongoose, jackals and foxes. But recent reports have indicated an increase in the number of seals testing positive for the virus.

According to Sea Search, the virus was accidentally introduced to Africa through the movement of infected dogs as early as 1892, followed by more widespread canine rabies in the 1950s which has affected multiple wildlife species.

However, the first case of rabies in a marine mammal was only identified in June 2024 through brain samples collected by Sea Search.

Video: ‘This is what rabies looks like in a Cape Fur Seal.’

The infected animal in the video was euthanised by a professional permitted to do so.

Rabies manifests in seals much like it does in other mammals, with distinct symptoms that can escalate quickly. These include:

• Aggressive behaviour – A normally docile seal may become unusually hostile, attempting to bite objects, animals or even humans.
• Disorientation and uncoordinated movement – The affected seal may appear confused, struggling to move properly or navigating its environment.
• Excessive salivation or foaming at the mouth is one of the most notorious symptoms of rabies.
• Unusual vocalisations – Rabid seals may emit strange cries or barks.
• Paralysis – As the disease progresses, the seal may experience limb paralysis before succumbing to the virus.

Rabies is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. If a rabid seal were to bite or scratch a person, the virus could be transmitted, necessitating immediate medical treatment. Other marine and terrestrial animals, including dogs, otters and even dolphins, could also be at risk if they come into contact with an infected seal.

While the likelihood of human infection from a rabid seal is relatively low, marine biologists and veterinarians stress the importance of avoiding any interaction with sick or behaving-abnormally seals. Anyone bitten or exposed to the saliva of a potentially rabid seal should seek medical attention immediately and undergo post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent the virus from taking hold.