Rabies remains one of the most deadliest yet preventable diseases. This disease remains a threat in all nine provinces, with hotspots in Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and the Free State. These provinces have recorded the highest number of human rabies fatalities, the majority of which include cases where the disease was contracted from infected dogs.

According to the Department of Agriculture, 344 animal cases were reported, and eight human cases were confirmed between January and December 2024 across South Africa. A total of 242 animal cases were recorded between January 1 and August 31, 2025, with nine human cases confirmed and two probable cases between January 1 and September 9, 2025.

“For the 2025 calendar year, we are sitting at 11 human fatalities as a result of rabies, 11 deaths which could have been prevented if we all heeded the call to vaccinate our pets and break the domestic dog cycle of rabies,” said Dr Mpho Maja, Director: Animal Health at the Department of Agriculture. 

Although rabies is 99.9% fatal once a person shows clinical signs, it is also 100% preventable through vaccination of pets and timely and correct treatment of exposed humans.

As a means to raise awareness about rabies, World Rabies Day is commemorated each year on September 27. This year’s theme for the commemoration is “ Act Now: You, Me, Community”.

The Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, has advised communities to take action against rabies.

“On World Rabies Day, we recommit to vaccination, awareness, and community partnership that protects both human and animal health. Together we can end rabies deaths in South Africa,” said Steenhuisen.

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