Seal at Kalk Bay tests positive for rabies - possible child bite under investigation
City officials have urged the public to keep a safe distance from marine wildlife after a Cape fur seal at Kalk Bay beach tested positive for rabies. The incident has sparked concern after reports that a child may have been bitten.
Image: Supplied
City health officials have confirmed that a Cape fur seal found at Kalk Bay beach has tested positive for rabies.
The incident has raised concern after reports that a group of children were seen teasing the animal, and that one child may have been bitten.
According to Muzzamiel Gamieldien, an environmental health practitioner with City Health Area South, the seal was collected after showing clear signs of infection.
“After tests were conducted, the results were positive for rabies,” he said.
“It appears that the children are not aware that the Cape fur seal population are prone to rabies infection and that being bitten or scratched by a seal may result in being infected with rabies.”
Mr Gamieldien said no confirmed report of a bite has been received yet, but he will be visiting nearby health facilities to check whether any child has been treated for a seal bite or scratches. The child thought to have been involved may live in the Capricorn or Muizenberg area.
The City has urged parents to seek immediate medical attention if their child was bitten or scratched by a seal recently at Kalk Bay beach.
Community groups and councillors have also been asked to circulate a rabies awareness poster and safety message through local WhatsApp groups.
Mayoral committee member for spatial planning and environment, Eddie Andrews, said the City was first alerted to the animal’s condition at 3.40pm on Saturday, and officials arrived shortly after.
“Upon assessment, they confirmed that the seal was exhibiting severe aggressive behaviour consistent with rabies infection. The animal was subsequently captured and removed by 4.30pm,” Mr Andrews said.
At this stage, the City cannot confirm that a child was bitten.
“The information available indicates that a group of children reported that one of their peers may have been bitten,” Mr Andrews added.
He also urged anyone bitten by a seal to seek urgent medical help.
“Rabies can take a long time to show symptoms, and there are no early warning signs. Once symptoms appear, the disease is almost always fatal. That’s why getting prompt medical care and receiving rabies treatment right away is so important.”
Mr Andrews reminded the public to respect marine wildlife.
“Animals, including seals, should be observed from a safe distance, not disturbed or harassed, and dogs should be kept away. These precautions are essential for the safety of both people and animals.”