South Carolina, August 23, 2025
News Summary
The South Carolina Department of Public Health has confirmed rabies cases in several wild animals across Aiken, Berkeley, Laurens, and York counties. A bobcat, fox, two raccoons, and a skunk were identified as rabies-positive. Four individuals were exposed and have been referred for medical care, while multiple dogs have been quarantined. Vaccination rules for pets and livestock are emphasized to protect against rabies, which continues to pose a public health risk in the state.
Columbia, South Carolina – A significant public health concern has arisen as the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed rabies in multiple wild animals across several counties. Rabies-positive animals include a bobcat, a fox, two raccoons, and a skunk, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with this dangerous virus that affects both animals and humans.
The confirmed rabies cases emerged from separate incidents in Aiken, Berkeley, Laurens, and York counties. The initial test submissions took place on August 18, 2025, with confirmations arriving on August 19 for the first four animals. A raccoon from Pickens County was submitted the next day, with a positive result confirmed on August 20, 2025.
In Berkeley County, four individuals were exposed to rabid animals and have been referred to healthcare providers for appropriate follow-up care. Additionally, five dogs across multiple counties have been quarantined according to the South Carolina Rabies Control Act. The recent findings also indicate that two livestock animals were potentially exposed in these separate rabies cases.
The bobcat marks the first confirmed rabies case in Aiken County for 2025, while the fox represents the second case in Berkeley County. The raccoon in Laurens County is the third rabies case confirmed in that area this year, and the skunk is the fifth rabies-positive animal recorded in York County. Furthermore, the raccoon from Pickens County stands as the third confirmed rabies case for that particular county this year.
Statewide, South Carolina has recorded a total of 56 confirmed cases of rabid animals in 2025, continuing a worrying trend. Historically, South Carolina averages about 144 cases of rabies-positive animals each year since 2002. In 2024, the state reported six cases in Aiken County, one in Berkeley County, four in Laurens County, six in Pickens County, and six in York County.
Rabies is naturally present in wildlife in South Carolina, prompting state law to mandate vaccinations for all dogs, cats, and ferrets against the virus. Livestock, including cattle and horses, are also vulnerable and should receive vaccinations when USDA-approved vaccines are available. Pets such as goats and swine, which do not have licensed rabies vaccines, should be closely monitored, especially if they frequently interact with humans.
Terri McCollister, the Rabies Program manager at the DPH, has emphasized the significance of keeping pets and livestock vaccinated as a key responsibility of ownership. Public health officials advise individuals to minimize rabies risks by avoiding contact with wild and stray animals and promptly reporting any potential exposures to relevant authorities.
Understanding Rabies in South Carolina
Rabies poses a continuing threat to both human and animal health in South Carolina. The recent surge in cases underscores the importance of animal vaccination and public vigilance in mitigating risks associated with rabies exposure.
Key Rabies Statistics in South Carolina
| Year | Aiken County | Berkeley County | Lauriens County | Pickens County | York County |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 5 |
| 2024 | 6 | 1 | 4 | 6 | 6 |
| Averages (2002-present) | 144/year |
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I suspect exposure to rabies?
If you suspect exposure to a rabid animal, contact your healthcare provider immediately for assessment and potential rabies post-exposure prophylaxis.
How can I protect my pets from rabies?
Ensure your pets are vaccinated against rabies in accordance with state regulations. Avoid allowing them to interact with wild or stray animals.
What are the symptoms of rabies in animals?
Symptoms of rabies in animals can include aggression, erratic behavior, excessive salivation, paralysis, and ataxia.
How does rabies affect livestock?
Livestock such as cattle and horses can contract rabies. Vaccination is recommended where USDA-approved vaccines are available.
Are there any treatments for rabies once symptoms appear?
Once clinical symptoms of rabies appear, the disease is almost always fatal. Prevention through vaccination is critical.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Rabid Raccoon Confirmed in York County; Public Health Alert Issued
Additional Resources
- WYFF4: Rabid Animals in Laurens and Pickens, South Carolina
- Wikipedia: Rabies
- FITSNews: Rabid Animals Confirmed Across Five South Carolina Counties
- Google Search: rabies South Carolina 2025
- ABC News 4: Fox in Berkeley County Tests Positive for Rabies
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rabies
- Fox Carolina: Raccoons Test Positive for Rabies in Upstate Counties
- Vax Before Travel: Rabies Cases Confirmed in South Carolina
- Greenville Online: Rabid Bat Confirmed in Upstate SC
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