In a bid to curb the spread of the deadly rabies virus, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has announced the launch of a comprehensive, free rabies vaccination campaign targeting pets in north Durban.
The initiative, which starts today, Monday March 11, aims to address the urgent public health concern posed by the disease, which is almost always fatal once symptoms appear.
Scheduled to roll out in Durban North, Glenashley, Glen Hills, Park Hill, and Virginia initially, the campaign represents a significant step towards safeguarding both animal and human populations from this zoonotic disease, capable of transmission from animals to humans through bites, scratches, or even licks on broken skin.
Rabies impacts the brain in both animals and humans, and by the time symptoms become evident, the disease is irreversible and leads to certain death.
“It is imperative that all domestic pets receive vaccinations against rabies. Not only is it a legal requirement, but failing to do so poses a serious public health risk,” said animal health technician Titus Letsoalo.
The department has previously seen strong support from the north Durban community for similar initiatives and hopes for an even greater turnout this time around. The primary objective is to drive up the numbers of vaccinated pets and to enhance public awareness about the disease and its prevention.
“Most rabies infections are the result of animal bites, but it’s crucial for the public to understand that even scratches or licks on broken skin can be dangerous if the animal is infected,” Mr Letsoalo added, emphasising the importance of vaccination and prompt treatment after any potential exposure to rabies.
The campaign will continue until the end of March, with plans to expand to additional areas including La Lucia, Somerset Park, Sunningdale, uMhlanga, and Greenwood Park.
Free vaccination campaign dates
- Wednesday March 13 (Durban North), from 9am to noon at the playlot situated on the corner of St Andrews Drive and Graham Place.
- Thursday March 14 (Glen Hills), from 9am to noon at the park on the corner of Malacca Road and Rinaldo Road.
- Friday March 15 (Glenashley), from 9am to noon at the playlot in Adelaide Drive and Adelaide Place.
- Monday March 18 (Virginia), from 9am to noon in the parking lot at Danville Park on Danville Avenue.
- Tuesday March 19 (Park Hill), from 9am to noon, at Seaton Park on Lothian Road.
