DPH: Rabid raccoons confirmed in Calhoun, Lexington counties

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)–  The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed that two raccoons from two different counties have tested positive for rabies.

One raccoon found near Springwater and Viceroy lanes in Calhoun County has tested positive for rabies.

Two dogs were exposed to the raccoon and will be quarantined as required by the South Carolina Rabies Control Act.

A second raccoon that tested positive for rabies was found near Stonewood Drive and Wilton Road in West Columbia.

DPH said 7 people were exposed to that raccoon and referred to their health care providers.

Both raccoons were submitted to DPH’s laboratory on Tuesday, July 2, and were confirmed to have rabies on Wednesday, July 3.

“Rabies is usually transmitted through a bite or scratch that allows saliva from an infected animal to be introduced into the body of a person or another animal. However, infected saliva or neural tissue contact with open wounds or areas such as the eyes, nose, or mouth could also potentially transmit rabies,” said Terri McCollister, Rabies Program director.

Also, DPH says raccoons are the most common animal to test positive for rabies in South Carolina and play a significant role in the transmission of rabies in the state.

In 2024, the Calhoun County raccoon is the first animal to test positive for rabies in that county, and the Lexington County raccoon is the first animal in that county to test positive for rabies.

There have been 40 cases of rabid animals statewide this year.

If you believe you, someone you know or your pets have come in contact with either the Calhoun County or Lexington County raccoon, or another animal that potentially has rabies, call DPH’s Lowcountry, Orangeburg office at (803) 533-5480 or the Columbia office at (803) 896-0620 during normal business hours (8:30 a.m.to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday) or after hours and on holidays at (888) 847-0902 (Select Option 2).