Greenwood and Beaufort, South Carolina, September 3, 2025
News Summary
The South Carolina Department of Public Health reports confirmed rabies cases in a raccoon in Greenwood County and a kitten in Beaufort County. The incidents highlight the ongoing risk of rabies exposure in the community. In Greenwood, a dog was exposed and will be quarantined. Unfortunately, nine individuals in Beaufort were exposed to the kitten, and additional kittens will also undergo quarantine. Public health officials emphasize the need for vigilance against rabies.
Greenwood and Beaufort, South Carolina: Rabies Confirmed in Raccoon and Kitten
The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has reported confirmed cases of rabies involving a raccoon and a kitten in separate incidents within Greenwood and Beaufort counties. These incidents underline the continued risk of rabies exposure within the community and the importance of taking preventative measures.
Rabies Case in Greenwood County
On August 27, 2025, a raccoon was found near the intersection of Bermuda and St. Augustine drives in Greenwood County and was submitted for testing to the DPH laboratory. The results confirmed rabies on August 28, 2025. Fortunately, there are no known human exposures related to this raccoon. However, one dog that was in proximity to the animal has been identified as having been exposed and will undergo a quarantine period in accordance with the South Carolina Rabies Control Act.
Rabies Case in Beaufort County
In Beaufort County, a kitten was discovered near Sea Island Parkway and Eustis Landing Road. This kitten was tested on August 28, 2025, with the rabies confirmation available the following day, August 29, 2025. Unlike the Greenwood case, nine individuals have been exposed to this kitten and have been referred to their health care providers for further evaluation. Additionally, three other kittens, which were also exposed, will be quarantined as mandated by the state’s rabies control regulations.
Public Health Advisory
In light of these incidents, the DPH urges the public to be vigilant and to seek help if they believe they have been exposed to rabies. Individuals can contact the DPH’s Greenwood office at (864) 942-3600 during normal business hours, or they may reach out to (888) 847-0902 for after-hours assistance and holiday queries. Public health officials stress the importance of avoiding contact with wild and stray animals as a key measure to reduce the risk of rabies exposure.
Background on Rabies
Rabies is a significant viral disease that primarily affects mammals. It is most commonly transmitted through bites from infected animals. Although rabies is preventable through vaccination, once symptoms develop, the disease is almost universally fatal. The DPH highlights that vaccinating pets is crucial for minimizing the risk of rabies transmission to humans and to protect the health of animals within the community.
Summary of Rabies Incidents
| Case | Location | Date of Testing | Date Confirmed | Exposure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raccoon | Greenwood County | August 27, 2025 | August 28, 2025 | No people, 1 dog quarantined |
| Kitten | Beaufort County | August 28, 2025 | August 29, 2025 | 9 people referred, 3 kittens quarantined |
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am exposed to a rabid animal?
If you suspect you have been exposed to a rabid animal, immediately wash the wound with soap and water and contact your health care provider or local health department for further guidance.
How can I protect my pets from rabies?
Ensure your pets are vaccinated against rabies and avoid letting them interact with wild and stray animals.
What are the symptoms of rabies in animals?
Symptoms may include changes in behavior, aggression, difficulty swallowing, excessive drooling, and paralysis. If you notice these signs, contact animal control or a veterinarian immediately.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beaufort County Reports Rabies Positive Kitten
Rabid Raccoon Confirmed in Beaufort County
Additional Resources
- WYFF4: South Carolina Rabies Alert
- Wikipedia: Rabies
- QC News: Rabid Cat and Raccoon in Gaston County
- Google Search: Rabies Awareness
- WSOCTV: Gaston County Confirms Two More Rabies Cases
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rabies
- WPDE: Possible Exposure to Rabid Kitten in Summerville
- WOBM: Rabid Cat Attacks in Manchester, NJ
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.
