Rabies detected in Cape fur seals highlights an unprecedented shift in rabies ecology 

The detection of sustained rabies transmission in Cape fur seals in southern Africa marks an unprecedented development in the ecology of rabies and raises important questions for wildlife conservation, animal public health and transboundary disease preparedness. 

Since 2024, more than 100 cases of rabies have been confirmed in Cape fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus pusillus) in South Africa and Namibia. Retrospective testing and genetic analyses indicate that sustained transmission within the seal population began several years before the disease was detected. 

Current evidence suggests that the outbreak originated from a single spillover event involving a dog-related rabies virus variant maintained by black-backed jackals in southern Africa, followed by ongoing transmission between Cape fur seals. This represents the first known establishment of rabies in a free-ranging marine mammal population. 

Affected seals have displayed neurological signs, including abnormal aggression towards people and other animals. As of May 2026, more than 145 human exposure incidents had been reported, highlighting the importance of appropriate public health measures and post-exposure management.

The event also has broader implications for wildlife health. Cape fur seals range across the coasts of South Africa and Namibia and can travel considerable distances, creating opportunities for contact with other marine mammal species. Continued investigation is needed to better understand the ecological consequences of the outbreak and the potential implications for marine mammal populations in other regions. 

The emergence of rabies in Cape fur seals demonstrates how pathogens can adapt to new host species and reinforces the importance of integrated surveillance across wildlife, domestic animals and humans under a One Health approach. Strengthening collaboration between veterinary, wildlife, environmental and public health authorities remains essential for early detection, risk assessment and coordinated response. 

WOAH encourages Members, its wider network and other experts to maintain vigilance for – a rabies-like syndrome in marine mammals, reinforce wildlife disease surveillance and laboratory diagnosis, ensure appropriate protection of personnel handling suspect animals, and continue sustained dog vaccination programmes, which remain the cornerstone of preventing dog-mediated rabies and reducing the risk of spillover into wildlife. 

WOAH will continue to work with Members and partners to monitor and support preparedness, surveillance and response through its expert networks, including the Working Group on Wildlife, the Rabies Reference Laboratory Network and the United Against Rabies Forum.