The Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development will re-launch rabies vaccinations in the south of Johannesburg following another outbreak in Lenasia South last week.
An eight year old dog with no history of vaccinations was diagnosed with rabies symptoms in Lenasia South. This follows the outbreak and vaccination campaign launched in the area last year. The presence of rabies in such a highly populated area can be considered an extremely serious public health risk
Larger-scale vaccination programs will be launched in southern Johannesburg starting with Witpoortjie, Lindalo, Lindhaven, Dobsonville, Plot 8 (Emahlangeni) and Princes on 10 and 11 March 2011. Lenasia South area will follow during the week of 14 March 2011.
The department calls on all people to make sure that their pets are vaccinated for this killer disease. GDARD is offering the vaccination services free. It is important for people to note that they need to seek medical attention immediately should they be bitten by pets - dogs and cats to be specific. Such post-exposure treatment will prevent the development of the disease. Once symptoms have arisen (which can take up to six month after the bite), it is too late for treatment.
Rabies is a disease affecting the brain and can lead to the death of the person or animal involved. Symptoms vary widely and include: behavioural changes, aggressiveness, and paralysis. The virus occurs in great numbers in the saliva of rabid animals. Never touch or caress a strange, injured animal or one, which appears to be sick.
GDARD will soon announce the specific venues where they will stage the vaccination in the areas already indentified.
Media contact person:
Makoko Lekola
Tel: 011 355 1347
Cell: 072 274 3692
E-mail: Makoko.Lekola@gauteng.gov.za
