Beaufort County, September 3, 2025
News Summary
A kitten in Beaufort County has tested positive for rabies, prompting health alerts for those who may have encountered the animal. Nine individuals are being evaluated for exposure, while three other kittens are quarantined. This marks the second rabies case in the county this year, with 60 total reported cases across South Carolina. Health officials urge residents to avoid contact with wild animals and ensure their pets are vaccinated.
Beaufort County Reports Positive Rabies Case in Kitten
A kitten discovered near Sea Island Parkway and Eustis Landing Road in Beaufort County has tested positive for rabies, prompting an alert for individuals and pets that may have been exposed to the infected animal. The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed the kitten’s diagnosis on August 29, 2025, following laboratory testing conducted the previous day.
Following the confirmation of rabies in the kitten, nine individuals who may have come into contact with it have been referred to their healthcare providers for further evaluation and potential treatment. Additionally, three other kittens found in the vicinity are now under quarantine to ensure the virus does not spread further.
This incident marks the second confirmed rabies case in Beaufort County for the year 2025. In total, South Carolina has reported 60 rabies cases statewide during the same timeframe. The DPH is strongly advising anyone who believes they might have interacted with the infected kitten, as well as with other potentially rabid animals in the area, to reach out immediately to health officials.
Public Health Recommendations
The South Carolina DPH encourages the community to prioritize safety by avoiding any contact with wild and stray animals. For assistance, individuals can contact the Greenwood office of DPH at (864) 942-3600 during business hours or (888) 847-0902 after hours and on holidays. Rabies Program manager Terri McCollister emphasized the need for vigilance among pet owners, advising them to keep their pets’ vaccinations up to date to help prevent the spread of the disease. Signs of rabies can include drastic changes in behavior among animals.
Understanding Rabies
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, leading to brain inflammation and, in many cases, death if left untreated. It is primarily transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals. Symptoms in animals may include aggression, excessive salivation, paralysis, and disorientation. Humans exposed to rabies without timely intervention typically face severe repercussions.
Rabies can be effectively prevented through post-exposure prophylaxis if treatment is sought promptly after exposure. Vaccination of pets remains one of the most effective preventive measures available to avoid rabies exposure.
Conclusion
In summary, the recent rabies case involving a kitten in Beaufort County underlines the importance of awareness and preventive measures regarding this deadly disease. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and proactive in their interactions with animals.
FAQ
What should I do if I come into contact with a potentially rabid animal?
Contact your healthcare provider and inform them of the exposure immediately. They will provide you with the necessary medical guidance and treatment options if needed.
How can I keep my pets safe from rabies?
Ensure that your pets are regularly vaccinated against rabies and avoid letting them come into contact with wild or stray animals.
What are the symptoms of rabies in animals?
Animals exhibiting signs of rabies may display aggressive behavior, excessive salivation, disorientation, paralysis, and seizures.
Where can I report a suspicious animal?
You can report suspicious or potentially rabid animals to local animal control or the Department of Public Health for investigation and assistance.
Key Features of the Rabies Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Beaufort County, near Sea Island Parkway and Eustis Landing Road |
| Date of Test | August 28, 2025 |
| Date of Confirmation | August 29, 2025 |
| Number of Individuals Exposed | 9 |
| Number of Kittens Quarantined | 3 |
| Statewide 2025 Rabies Cases | 60 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Rabies Confirmed in Raccoon and Kitten in South Carolina
Beaufort County Reports Rabies Positive Kitten
One Dead in Late Night Shooting on St. Helena Island
Rabid Raccoon Confirmed in Beaufort County
Beaufort County Prepares for a Vibrant May 2025 with Events
Additional Resources
- WTOC: Kitten Tests Positive for Rabies
- WJCL: Beaufort County Kitten Rabies Report
- WSAV: Raccoon Tests Positive for Rabies
- ABC News 4: Raccoon with Rabies Exposes Dog
- Google Search: Rabies Prevention
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
