Another suspected rabies outbreak is being investigated at the Duiker Island seal colony in Hout Bay, located about 20km southwest of Cape Town. Two seals have been removed from the area in the past week, one following an incident with kayakers last Saturday.
The island is famous for its large colony of Cape fur seals and is a popular spot for boat tours and wildlife viewing. Rabies outbreaks among seals has been reported in 2025 and 2024 at various places in South Africa and Namibia (see EpiNews 28.10.2026).
Seals on Duiker Island:
Prevention:
- Beachgoers are urged to stay away from the seals and are advised to go in pairs, wear visible gear, and use the NSRI SafeTracks app.
- Due to the global shortage of rabies immunoglobulins — crucial for unvaccinated individuals after potential rabies exposure — the Swiss Expert Committee for Travel Medicine advises a more generous approach to recommending rabies vaccination before travel. A two-dose pre-exposure rabies vaccination for travel should be considered as a once-in-a-lifetime investment for all travellers!
Behavior after exposure: After an animal bite/scratch: immediately wash the wound with water and soap for 15 minutes, then disinfect and in any case visit the nearest medical center for post-exposure vaccination and clinical check-up as soon as possible!