DHEC confirms rapid bat in Lexington County, one pet exposed

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) has confirmed that a bat found near Aster Court and South Main Street in Gaston, S.C. has tested positive for rabies.

The bat was taken to DHEC’s laboratory for testing on Oct. 30, 2023, and was then confirmed to have rabies on Oct. 31, 2023.

DHEC says no people were exposed to the bat but one cat was exposed and will be quarantined.

“Rabid bats have been known to transmit the rabies virus. People don’t always realize they or a pet have been bitten since bat teeth are tiny and bites are easy to overlook,” said Terri McCollister, Rabies Program director.

Anyone who believes they, someone you know or your pets had contact with the bat or another animal that might have rabies, DHEC is asking to contact the Public Health Columbia office at (803) 896-0620 or (888) 847-0902.

Also, DHEC confirmed this is the eighth animal in Lexington County to test positive for rabies in 2023.