Rabid raccoon confirmed in Orangeburg County after dog exposure, DPH says
(WCIV) — A racoon was confirmed to have rabies on Thursday after exposing one dog to the virus in Orangeburg County, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Health.
A raccoon eats peanuts on the boardwalk in Panama City, Sunday, March 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix)
The racoon was reportedly found near Branchdale Highway and Gemini Drive in Vance. No people have reported being exposed however one dog was exposed and was quarantined as per the Rabies Control Act.
After the exposure the racoon was reported and submitted to the Department of Public Health’s lab for testing on June 3 before coming back with a positive rabies result on June 4.
Anyone who believes that they may have come in contact with this racoon or any other animal that is suspected to have rabies, is urged to call DPH’s Charleston office at (843) 953-4713 during normal business hours.
“To reduce the risk of getting rabies, always give wild and stray animals plenty of space,” said Terri McCollister, Rabies Program manager. “If you see an animal in need, avoid touching it and contact someone trained in handling animals, such as your local animal control officer, wildlife control operator, or wildlife rehabilitator.”
An exposure to rabies is defined as direct contact with saliva or brain/nervous system tissue from an infected animal.
“To reduce the risk of getting rabies, always give wild and stray animals plenty of space,” said Terri McCollister, Rabies Program manager. “If you see an animal in need, avoid touching it and contact someone trained in handling animals, such as your local animal control officer, wildlife control operator, or wildlife rehabilitator.”
An exposure to rabies is defined as direct contact with saliva or brain/nervous system tissue from an infected animal.
