First rabies case detected in Cape seal fur at Walvis Bay

The Directorate of Veterinary Services in the agriculture ministry has confirmed Namibia’s first case of rabies in a Cape fur seal at Walvis Bay Lagoon. The case was detected on 13 June and the affected animal died a day later. Test results released on 16 June from the Central Veterinary Laboratory in Windhoek confirmed the case of rabies.

Acting Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Johannes Shoopala said rabies is a fatal disease.

The agriculture ministry has urged the public, especially in coastal areas, to report seals showing unusual behaviour to the nearest State Veterinary Office.