The South Africa Rabies Advisory Group’s core mission is to ensure the country lowers the human mortality rate from canine rabies by 2030. This falls in line with global efforts to minimise the virus’ fatal interaction with humans. Afrivet director Vuyokazi Makapela joins this week’s episode of Farmer’s Inside Track to tell us more.
Makapela explains that the advisory group’s aim is to improve pre- and post-exposure treatment for humans who have contracted rabies.
“The approach really is to ensure that all dogs and cats are vaccinated, and that people that were exposed to the rabies virus receive the correct post-exposure treatment.”
Makapela emphasises that rabies is fatal, but also preventable. She adds that it imperative that people who have been bitten or scratched by animals they suspect to have the rabies virus, receive the correct post-exposure treatment.
The first step in taking precautions against rabies outbreaks is to locate the infected animal and notify the nearest State Veterinarian’s office. She also says that infected patients must seek immediate medical attention.
“They need to contact their medical doctor immediately once they’ve been exposed, and this will be in the form of a lick, scratch or even a bite. While waiting for medical assistance, they (the patient) needs to wash the wound with soap and water for at least 15 minutes, because this actually dilutes the amount of virus in the wound.”
What to do in the event of a rabies epidemic
In the episode, Makapela also unpacks treatment for post-exposure prophylaxis and why people should not wait for the results of the doctor’s test before seeking pre-exposure prophylaxis.
“I cannot stress this enough. It is the best and most cost-effective way of protecting yourself, your family, and your community at large against this disease. People must make sure that they report suspected cases and seek medical attention immediately when they are exposed to a rabid animal. It will save lives.”
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ALSO READ: ICYMI: KZN death spurs on rabies prevention drive
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