Rabies spreads to people from the saliva of infected animals and is usually transmitted through a bite.

An incident was reported in Cape Town after a seal bit several surfers. 

Four fur seals were euthanized for testing; three tested positive. 

To date, 11 fur seals in South Africa have tested positive for rabies, marking the first significant marine mammal outbreak.

The symptoms include fever, pain, and unusual sensations at the wound site, followed by brain and spinal cord inflammation, leading to hyperactivity, hallucinations, hydrophobia, and paralysis.

Rabies is common in regional wildlife but rare in seals. 

There is a potential risk of seal-to-human transmission as well.

About 2 million fur seals live in the area, raising concerns about the virus spreading within colonies and to other species like otters.

The following public safety measures are being taken by officials to prevent potential spread :
1. Vaccination of the surfers and swimmers  if bitten.
2. Closing of beaches by lifeguards if aggressive seals are seen.
3. Dog owners are urged keep pets leashed.