Staff Reporter
THERE has been an increase in rabies cases among kudus reported in the past few weeks.
This was announced by the Namibia Agricultural Union (NAU), which expressed gratitude to its members who promptly reported the rabies 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,” NAU added.
Where possible, the NAU recommends euthanising affected animals, isolating the carcass, and promptly sending the head to the Central Veterinary Laboratory for the 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,” NAU explained.
