Rabies Alert
There have been an increasing number of Rabies infection in the stray dog
population in Harare – more than 10 cases from most areas of Harare –
Greystone Park, Mandara, Chisipite, Highlands, Greendale, Umwinsidale,
Borrowdale, Pomona,Alex Park and Haig Park. These have mainly been rabid
dogs, but also horses, a zebra, squirrel, bat and a duiker.
Rabies is an acute viral encephalitis, characterized by altered behaviour,
aggressiveness, progressive paralysis and death. It occurs in all animals,
including horses, wildlife and of course in humans. It is spread by a bite
from (or even contact with saliva from) an infected animal. Once clinical
signs develop, there is no cure.
However, animals and people can be protected from infection by vaccination.
People do not need regular vaccinations if their animals are vaccinated;
however if they come into contact with an infected or rabid animal,
vaccinations are essential as soon as possible.
In Zimbabwe, all dogs by law must be vaccinated against Rabies, starting at
three months of age, then one year and thereafter every three years. Cats
are vaccinated every year. The veterinary profession encourages the public
to act responsibly, making sure your pets are adequately vaccinated so that
you, your family and neighbours are not at risk.
Stray dogs are often picked up by members of the public and taken into SPCA
or local veterinary clinics. These people are at risk of getting infected if
the stray is sick with Rabies so extreme caution is needed. If a dog is seen
behaving strangely, it is better to call SPCA (; ; 0712
211 900) or VAWZ (0774 168 218) to collect it than intervene. Once a
diagnosis of Rabies is made by the Government Veterinary Department,
everyone who has been in contact with that dog is contacted so that they can
go for a course of rabies vaccinations.
Zimbabwe Veterinary Association