South Carolina, September 3, 2025
News Summary
The South Carolina Department of Public Health has confirmed two cases of rabies in wildlife, specifically a raccoon and a kitten, prompting health advisories for Greenwood and Beaufort Counties. Residents are urged to seek medical advice if they suspect exposure and to ensure pets are vaccinated to prevent rabies transmission.
Greenwood and Beaufort Counties, South Carolina – Rabies Confirmed in Wildlife
The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed two cases of rabies in animals, prompting health advisories for residents in Greenwood and Beaufort Counties. A raccoon in Greenwood County tested positive for rabies, and a kitten in Beaufort County has also been confirmed with the virus.
The raccoon was discovered near Bermuda and St. Augustine drives in Greenwood. It was submitted for testing on August 27, 2025, and the results confirmed rabies the following day. At this time, no individuals are known to have been exposed to the rabid raccoon. However, a dog that was exposed will undergo a quarantine period as mandated by the South Carolina Rabies Control Act.
In Beaufort County, a kitten found near Sea Island Parkway and Eustis Landing Road tested positive for rabies after being submitted to DPH’s laboratory on August 28, 2025. This case was confirmed on August 29, 2025. Nine people have been exposed to the infected kitten and have already been referred to their healthcare providers for further evaluation. Additionally, three other kittens that were exposed will also be quarantined as required.
This incident in Beaufort County marks the second confirmed rabies case of the year. In total, South Carolina has reported 60 rabies cases statewide in 2025, underlining the continued risk of rabies transmission in the area.
The DPH is urging anyone who thinks they may have come into contact with the infected raccoon, kitten, or any potentially rabid animal to seek immediate assistance. Residents can reach out to the Greenwood office at (864) 942-3600 during normal business hours or (888) 847-0902 after hours and on holidays. Rabies is a disease that can be treated and prevented through vaccination, but prompt medical attention is critical following any exposure.
Health Advisory Measures
Residents are encouraged to take precautions against rabies by avoiding contact with wild animals and ensuring that pets are vaccinated. The rabies virus can be transmitted from animals to humans and can be fatal if not treated promptly after exposure.
Background on Rabies
Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the central nervous system and is typically spread through the bite of an infected animal. Common carriers of rabies include raccoons, bats, skunks, and foxes. Pets such as cats and dogs can also contract the virus if they are not vaccinated and come into contact with wild animals.
Symptoms of rabies in humans can include fever, headache, and confusion, which may progress to more severe neurological issues. The importance of vaccination for pets is paramount in controlling rabies transmission and protecting public health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I think my pet has been exposed to rabies?
If you suspect that your pet has been exposed to rabies, contact your veterinarian immediately. They can advise you on the necessary steps, including potential vaccination and quarantine.
How can I protect myself and my pets from rabies?
To protect yourself and your pets, avoid contact with wild animals, keep your pets up to date on vaccinations, and report any suspicious animal behavior to local animal control authorities.
What are the symptoms of rabies in humans?
Symptoms of rabies in humans can include fever, headache, confusion, and in later stages, paralysis, hydrophobia, and coma. If you believe you have been exposed, seek medical attention immediately.
Summary of Rabies Incidents
| Location | Animal Type | Date Confirmed | People Exposed | Pets Exposed | Next Steps |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greenwood County | Raccoon | August 28, 2025 | None | 1 Dog | Quarantine |
| Beaufort County | Kitten | August 29, 2025 | 9 People | 3 Kittens | Healthcare referral & Quarantine |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Rabid Raccoon Triggers Health Alerts in Greenwood
Grants and Job Opportunities Bloom in Greenwood County
Rabies Alert Issued in South Carolina Due to Rising Cases
Raccoons and Other Wildlife Test Positive for Rabies in South Carolina
Additional Resources
- WYFF4: South Carolina Rabies Alert
- Wikipedia: Rabies
- WTOC: Kitten Tests Positive for Rabies
- Google Search: Rabies South Carolina
- WISTV: Rabid Raccoon Found in Greenwood
- Google Scholar: Rabies Transmission
- Vax Before Travel: Rabies Cases Confirmed
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rabies
- WJCL: Beaufort County Kitten Rabies
- Google News: Rabies South Carolina 2025
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
