Raccoons and Other Wildlife Test Positive for Rabies in South Carolina

News Summary

South Carolina is facing a concerning rise in rabies cases, including two raccoons in Greenwood and Lancaster Counties testing positive. Health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant, especially after two dogs came into contact with the infected raccoons and will undergo quarantine. The situation reflects a broader trend, as rabies cases rise statewide, prompting officials to raise awareness about wildlife interactions. Residents who may be exposed are encouraged to contact health authorities promptly to address potential risks.

Raccoons and Other Wildlife Test Positive for Rabies in South Carolina

South Carolina is currently grappling with several cases of rabies across different counties, and health officials are urging residents to stay vigilant. In the most recent turn of events, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed cases of rabies in two raccoons—one in Greenwood County and the other in Lancaster County.

Greenwood County Raccoon Incident

The first raccoon, identified near Culbertson Drive and Lorenzo Road in Greenwood County, tested positive for rabies on January 24, 2025. This raccoon was tested just a day earlier, on January 23, 2025. Thankfully, health officials reported that no humans are known to have been exposed to this raccoon. However, it wasn’t all good news, as two dogs were found to have had contact with this raccoon and, in accordance with the South Carolina Rabies Control Act, they will be placed under quarantine to ensure the safety of the community.

Lancaster County Raccoon Update

Another raccoon has been confirmed positive for rabies in Lancaster County, near Thornhill and Flat Rock Roads. Testing for this raccoon was conducted on January 24, 2025, and it was confirmed positive just a few days later on January 27, 2025. Just like in Greenwood County, there is no reported human exposure linked to this case, but two dogs that came into contact with this raccoon will also be quarantined as a precautionary measure.

What to Do If Exposed

Residents who may have had potential contact with either of these rabid raccoons are strongly encouraged to reach out to DPH’s Greenwood or Rock Hill offices during regular business hours or even after hours and on holidays. It’s crucial to be proactive in these situations to prevent further spread of the virus.

Wider Rabies Concerns

The rabies situation is not limited to raccoons. Nearby Grovetown, Georgia, also reported a rabid raccoon while, in Aiken County, a raccoon and a skunk tested positive for the virus. An individual in Aiken County has already been referred to a healthcare provider after coming into contact with the rabid raccoon. While no human exposure has been reported in connection with the skunk, it serves as a reminder of the potential dangers lurking in our local wildlife.

In Charleston County, a bat has been confirmed to carry rabies. Although no human exposure has been reported in this case, a dog that may have come into contact with the bat is being quarantined. The variety of species involved in these rabies cases highlights the importance of being cautious around wild animals.

More Cases in Aiken County

A fox in Gaston recently tested positive for rabies, which has led to one person and three cats being exposed. This individual has also been referred for medical care. Additionally, two cats in Florence County tested positive for rabies on the same day, with a total of 18 people exposed to one of the cats and a single person exposed to the other. This troubling trend is a stark reminder to take caution when it comes to interactions with wildlife.

Statewide Rabies Stats

So far this year, South Carolina has reported 31 rabies cases. This is part of a larger trend, with the state averaging about 148 positive rabies cases each year since 2002. Given these alarming numbers, DPH is stressing the need for public awareness and caution when dealing with wildlife.

The confirmation of rabies across various regions highlights the ongoing risk posed by wildlife in our neighborhoods. If you notice wild animals acting strangely or if you suspect they might be rabid, please contact local health authorities immediately. Staying informed and prepared is key to keeping our communities safe from the dangers of rabies.

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Additional Resources

• News Source: WRDW
• Wikipedia: Rabies
• News Source: Live 5 News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Rabies
• News Source: WACH