Rabies in Namibian seals: Erongo Region
25 Jun 2025
On 17 June 2025, the Namibia Ministry of Agriculture confirmed a case of rabies in a Cape fur seal has been detected at the Walvis Bay Lagoon in the Erongo Region.
The affected seal was first observed displaying clinical signs highly suspicious of rabies on 13 June 2025 and later died. Tests confirmed the seal to be positive for rabies.
Rabies is endemic in Namibia, however this is the first report of a marine mammal in Namibia testing positive for rabies. South Africa reported rabies in Cape fur seals in 2024.
The Ministry of Agriculture advise the public to avoid any contact with seals and report any unusual behaviour in seals to the nearest State Veterinary Office.
Rabies is a fatal viral infection which affects the brain and nerves. Nearly everyone who has rabies will die. The virus is spread through the saliva of infected animals, usually following a bite, lick or scratch.
Anyone bitten by a seal, or any other animal in Namibia should seek medical advice without delay.
Advice to Travellers
Before you travel, you should:
- check if rabies is a risk at your destination
- consider having rabies vaccines before travel; see a travel health professional (at least 4-6 weeks before you travel) if you think you might need a rabies vaccine course or booster dose
- be aware what to do if you think you have been exposed to rabies virus
- determine if there will be any reliable medical facilities at your destination
If you are travelling to a country where rabies is considered a risk, you should:
- avoid contact with animals, especially dogs, cats, seals and monkeys: be aware that some animals can be infected with rabies without being aggressive or behaving strangely
- be aware that children are more likely to approach animals. Check them for wounds, and encourage them to tell you if they are bitten, licked or scratched by an animal
- read the animal bites page for advice on how to prevent being bitten by bats and animals
- seek immediate medical attention if you might have been exposed to rabies
For further information, see the fitfortravel Rabies page.