Increasing cases of rabies among kudus have been reported in the past few weeks. The NAU would like to thank its members who promptly reported these cases to the Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS). It should be noted that rabies is a notifiable disease according to legislation, regardless of the animals affected, whether cattle, dogs, jackals, or wildlife.
Any suspected cases must be reported to the nearest state veterinary office. This is of utmost importance and is enforced according to the Animal Health Act. Failure to report is considered a crime. Once reported, DVS will take the necessary further actions.
Where possible, the affected animal should be euthanised, and the carcass isolated. The head should be sent to the Central Veterinary Laboratory as soon as possible for analysis of a brain sample. DVS has the necessary funds to carry out these actions. Anyone dealing with suspected cases of rabies should apply the utmost caution by wearing protective equipment.
The Rabies virus is transmitted through direct contact (such as through wounds or mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, or mouth) with infectious tissue or fluids. Infectious tissues or fluids include tears, nerve tissue, saliva, and respiratory fluids. It should be noted that rabies is a disease that is transmissible from animals to humans.
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