Rabies endemic in Cape fur seals; 176 bitten, Antarctic spillover feared

A marine rabies outbreak among Cape fur seals along South Africa's western and southern coasts has led to at least 176 human bites, with scientists now declaring the disease endemic in the species. The outbreak threatens to spread to other seal populations and marine mammals, potentially reaching Antarctic breeding refuges like Marion Island. The situation marks a first documented endemic rabies reservoir in marine mammals, raising zoonotic and conservation concerns.