Multiple Rabid Animals Reported Across South Carolina

While rabies cases are much less common these days, with only about 148 cases reported in the Palmetto State each year, they still can pose a significant threat to both human and animal life. Over the past few weeks, multiple reports of rabbid animals, both wild and domestic, have popped up across South Carolina.

2 People, 2 Dogs Exposed to Rabbid Bat in Marlboro County:

The 2 individuals who were potentially exposed to the rabid bat were immediately quarantined.Photo byJoel Sartore/National Geographic

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) has confirmed the discovery of a rabid bat in Marlboro County.

The bat was found near Ebenezer and Mays Road in Bennettsville earlier last week and was subsequently submitted for testing. Results revealed the presence of rabies in the bat, prompting DHEC to take swift action.

Two individuals and two dogs were exposed to the rabid animal and have since been referred for medical evaluation and quarantine, respectively, in accordance with the South Carolina Rabies Control Act.

DHEC emphasized the importance of not handling bats or any wild animals without proper protection, as rabid bats can transmit the virus through unnoticed bites, owing to their small teeth. Terri McCollister, Rabies Program Team Leader at DHEC, underscored the necessity of vigilance in recognizing potential exposure to rabies.

11 Dogs Exposed to Rabid Skunk:

Nearly a dozen dogs were exposed to the rabid skunk in Oconee County.Photo byThe Denver Post

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) reported that nearly a dozen dogs were exposed to a rabid skunk in Oconee County.

The skunk was discovered near Boat Ramp Road and South Union Road in southern Oconee County and subsequently tested positive for rabies on March 29th. As a precautionary measure, the 11 exposed dogs will undergo quarantine.

Fortunately, DHEC stated that no individuals were known to have been exposed to the rabid animal. The agency advises vigilance in areas where rabies is prevalent and urges pet owners to ensure their animals are up-to-date on rabies vaccinations to prevent potential transmission.

1 Person Exposed to Rabid Cat in Laurens County:

This marks the first reported case of rabies in Laurens county this year.Photo byCamden County

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) has reported that a cat discovered near SC Highway 72 and Charlottes Road in Clinton, S.C., has tested positive for rabies.

Following confirmation of the rabies diagnosis on March 7th, DHEC advised that one individual was exposed to the infected cat and has been referred to their healthcare provider. Terri McCollister, Rabies Program director, emphasized the importance of seeking medical attention promptly after exposure to wild, stray, or domestic animals.

Anyone who believes they or their pets may have had contact with this cat or any potentially rabid animal is urged to contact DHEC's Public Health Greenwood office at (864) 942-3600 during business hours or (888) 847-0902 after hours. Along with this, maintaining up-to-date rabies vaccinations for pets is strongly recommended to prevent transmission of the disease.