Rabid Skunks and Bats Discovered in Four South Carolina Counties; Multiple Pets Exposed
Recently, state health officials in South Carolina confirmed several animals infected with rabies. This alarming news comes as various species have been identified across multiple counties.
Greenville County
A rabid skunk was located near Cedar Falls and Sweetwater roads in Fountain Inn. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH), two cats, two dogs, and nine goats were exposed to the skunk and will undergo quarantine in compliance with the South Carolina Rabies Control Act.
Greenwood County
In another incident, a rabid bat was found at the intersection of Miller and Ridge roads in Greenwood. One dog was also exposed and will be quarantined following the same state regulations.
Pickens County
Another rabid bat was discovered near Wylie Court and East Hill Drive in Easley. In this case, two cats were exposed and they, too, will be quarantined according to state law.
Beaufort County
On Hilton Head Island, yet another rabid bat was identified near Headlands Drive and Oyster Rake Lane. A person who was exposed has been directed to contact their healthcare provider for further evaluation.
All of the animals were tested at the DPH laboratory on August 21, 2026, with rabies confirmations received on August 25, 2026.
This recent skunk is now the fifth rabid animal identified in Greenville County this year, while the bat discovery in Beaufort marks the second case in that county. The Greenwood bat is the sixth rabid animal found in its region, and the bat in Pickens is the third. So far this year, there have been 78 confirmed rabies cases reported across the state.
Since 2002, South Carolina has averaged around 136 confirmed rabies cases annually. Last year, Greenville County reported 10 out of 101 confirmed cases, with additional cases found in Beaufort, Greenwood, and Pickens counties.
If you suspect that you, someone you know, or your pets may have interacted with these rabid animals, it’s crucial to call the DPH’s Upstate Greenville-Spartanburg office or the Charleston office during business hours. After hours, a dedicated number is available for immediate assistance.
The DPH emphasizes that individuals should avoid handling bats or any wild or stray animals, whether alive or dead, using bare hands. Bats that may have come into contact with humans or pets need to be carefully captured in a sealed container and not touched again. Releasing a bat prevents it from being tested for rabies.
“While bats can carry rabies, it’s important to remember that not every bat is infected with the virus. They play a crucial role in our ecosystems and should be treated with respect, just like all wildlife,” stated Terri McCollister, the rabies program manager.
It’s vital to note that rabies cannot be identified merely by observing an animal; laboratory testing is necessary for confirmation. Some unusual signs indicating that a bat might have rabies include being active during the daytime, difficulty in flight, or being located in atypical areas such as homes or yards. Direct contact with the saliva or neural tissue of an infected animal defines exposure. If you suspect you’ve been exposed, wash the affected area with soap and water immediately and seek medical attention.
South Carolina law mandates that all dogs, cats, and ferrets receive vaccinations against rabies and be revaccinated as required to ensure ongoing protection from the virus. Additionally, livestock that can be vaccinated should receive USDA-approved rabies vaccinations as applicable.
