NSRI and CoCT (City of Cape Town) are appealing to bathers to be cautious following an incident at Clifton Beach on Tuesday, 3 January, where a seal bit 2 bathers who were treated by CoCT lifeguards for bite wounds.
SPCA were in attendance at Clifton on Tuesday but the the seal pup was no longer present.
Reports indicate similar incidents involving aggressive seals in Hout Bay and Yzerfontein and in recent months at Fish Hoek Beach and at Noordhoek.
The Department of Environment and Marine Scientists are investigating.
NSRI CEO Dr. Cleeve Robertson has advised patients bitten by a seal should seek immediate professional medical attention at their doctor or at a hospital emergency room. Bite wounds from seals become severely infected and require thorough cleaning. Wounds of this nature should not immediately be stitched closed and the patient should be prescribed broad spectrum antibiotics. Without professional medical care results in significant infection, said Dr Robertson.
We are appealing to bathers and paddlers to stay clear of seals and avoid marine animals in their environment.
Anyone encountering an aggressive seal should stay clear and call the SPCA and Police or CoCT Law Enforcement officers.
Responsible behaviour encouraged as festivities continue