News Summary
A raccoon found on St. Helena Island has been confirmed rabid, marking Beaufort County’s first case of the year. The discovery has prompted health officials to stress the importance of rabies vaccinations for pets, as one dog exposed to the animal will be quarantined. With rabies cases averaging 144 annually in South Carolina, residents are urged to maintain distance from wild animals and report any encounters.
Beaufort, South Carolina – A raccoon found on St. Helena Island has tested positive for rabies, marking the first confirmed rabies case in Beaufort County for the year 2025. The raccoon was discovered near the intersection of West Cedar Road and Oakland Drive and tested on July 10, with results confirming the presence of the virus the following day.
As a precautionary measure, one dog that was exposed to the rabid raccoon will be placed in quarantine in accordance with state regulations. It is essential to note that the rabies virus primarily spreads through bites or scratches that allow saliva from an infected animal to enter the body of another animal or a human. It can also contaminate open wounds or mucous membranes—such as the eyes, nose, and mouth—through contact with infected saliva or neural tissue.
Veterinary and animal experts in Beaufort County are highlighting the critical need for rabies vaccinations for pets, including those that are kept indoors. These vaccinations are available in one-year and three-year forms, providing essential protection against the rabies virus. Pet owners are urged to ensure their pets are vaccinated to prevent potential exposure to rabies.
If pets come into contact with wild animals that may have rabies, it is crucial for owners to promptly report the incident to the Department of Public Health (DPH). The DPH can be reached during business hours at (843) 525-7603, or after-hours at (888) 847-0902, with the option to select Option 2 for assistance.
In cases where pets are exposed to a rabid animal, vaccinated pets are required to undergo a 45-day quarantine period. In contrast, unvaccinated pets must face a longer quarantine of 180 days. This policy aims to prevent potential outbreaks and ensure public safety.
The rabies virus is a serious concern for both human and animal health. In South Carolina, the state has seen an average of approximately 144 confirmed cases of rabies each year since 2002. In light of the recent positive case, authorities are reminding residents to maintain a safe distance from wild and stray animals, particularly those that seem sick or injured. If residents encounter such wildlife, it is recommended to contact trained professionals instead of attempting to handle the situation themselves.
Understanding the risks associated with rabies and taking preventative measures can help protect both pets and people from this deadly disease. The recent confirmation of rabies in Beaufort County reinforces the need for vigilance among pet owners and the broader community regarding wildlife interactions.
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Additional Resources
- WJCL: Experts Speak on Preventative Rabies Care
- Wikipedia: Rabies
- WSAV: Raccoon Tests Positive for Rabies
- Google Search: rabies
- ABC News 4: Raccoon with Rabies Exposes Dog
- Google Scholar: rabies prevention
- WJCL: St. Helena Island Raccoon Rabies
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rabies
- Island Packet: Rabies Case Update
- Google News: rabies raccoon Beaufort
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
