Rabid raccoon confirmed in Saluda County
SALUDA COUNTY, S.C. (WOLO)– South Carolina Department of Public Health confirms that a raccoon found near West Creek and Beulah roads in Leesville tested positive for rabies.
No people are known to have been exposed.
One dog was exposed and will be quarantined as required in the South Carolina Rabies Control Act, according to DPH.
The raccoon was submitted to DPH’s laboratory for testing Mar. 6, 2026, and was confirmed to have rabies Mar. 9, 2026.
If you believe you, someone you know, or your pets have come in contact with this raccoon or another animal that potentially has rabies call DPH’s Columbia office at (803) 896-4680 during normal business hours (8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday) or after hours and on holidays at (888) 847-0902 (Select Option 2).
In South Carolina, rabies is most often found in wildlife such as raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bats, but pets are just as susceptible to the virus.
This raccoon is the second animal in Saluda County to test positive for rabies in 2026.
For more information on rabies visit dph.sc.gov/rabies or cdc
