Pet owners are urged to ensure their dogs and cats are vaccinated as South Africa marks World Rabies Day on Monday (28/9) under this year’s theme, Stronger Together.

The theme highlights cooperation between communities, veterinarians, healthcare professionals, government and animal welfare organisations. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, making prevention, vaccination and rapid medical attention after possible exposure essential to protecting both people and animals.

Rabies remains endemic in parts of South Africa, with domestic dogs responsible for most human exposure and infections. Dog bites and scratches account for 99% of human rabies cases, while children are among those most vulnerable to exposure, according to information highlighted for Rabies Awareness Month.

The disease remains a significant public health problem, particularly in Asia and Africa. Tens of thousands of people die from rabies each year and about 40% of victims are children younger than 15, the World Health Organisation indicated.

“Rabies is a clear example of why human health and animal welfare cannot be separated,” Four Paws South Africa director Fiona Miles said. “Protecting animals through vaccination and sterilisation protects people and contributes to healthier, safer communities.”

Most human rabies infections recorded in recent South African surveillance data are linked to infected dogs, underlining the importance of routine vaccination, responsible pet ownership and community awareness, Miles said. Children remain particularly vulnerable because of their risk of contact with animals and possible exposure to bites and scratches.

“While rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, it is completely preventable through timely vaccination of dogs and cats, public education and immediate medical intervention following potential exposure,” she said.

Pet owners should watch for unusual behaviour in animals following contact with wild or unknown animals and seek veterinary assistance immediately if they are concerned, the SPCA advises. Dogs and cats should also receive their rabies vaccinations regularly to reduce the risk of the disease spreading within communities.

Anyone bitten or scratched by a potentially rabid animal should seek medical attention without delay. Possible exposure should also be taken seriously where saliva from a suspected rabid animal comes into contact with a person or pet.

Greater vaccination coverage makes entire communities safer, the SPCA said. Pet owners are therefore encouraged to spread awareness during Rabies Awareness Month and ensure their own animals’ vaccinations are up to date.

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