FLORENCE COUNTY, S.C. — A raccoon has tested positive for rabies in Florence County, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Health (SCDPH).

Raccoon Found Near Albany Road and Chester Road

The raccoon was discovered in the Coward area, near the intersection of Albany Road and Chester Road. The animal was submitted for testing on Thursday and confirmed to have rabies two days later, on Saturday.

Four Dogs Exposed and Quarantined

Local authorities have quarantined four dogs that had come into contact with the infected raccoon, as required by the South Carolina Rabies Control Act. There are currently no reports of any humans being exposed to the virus.

“Keeping your pets up to date on their rabies vaccination is the easiest way to protect you and your family from this deadly virus,” said Terri McCollister, director of the rabies program. “Any mammal has the ability to carry and transmit the disease to people or pets. Therefore, give wild and stray animals plenty of space.”

Rabies Common in Various Animal Species

Rabies can affect a wide range of animals, including raccoons, skunks, foxes, snakes, and bats. Dogs are also vulnerable to the disease and need regular vaccinations.

If you suspect an animal has rabies or has come into contact with a potentially infected animal, it is crucial to avoid touching it and contact your local animal control officer, wildlife control officer, or wildlife rehabilitator immediately.

First Case of Rabies in Florence County for 2025

This is the first confirmed case of rabies in Florence County in 2025. To stay informed about this issue and for more information on rabies, visit dph.sc.gov/rabies.

Contact Information

If you, someone you know, or your pets have come into contact with this raccoon or any other animal suspected of having rabies, call the DPH’s Conway office at 843-915-8801.

Prevention Tips

• Vaccinate your pets against rabies.
• Avoid direct contact with wild animals.
• Report any animal encountered that appears sick or aggressive.
• Keep your pets restrained when outdoors.

Our Responsibilities

It is the responsibility of both animal owners and the general public to take necessary precautions against rabies to ensure the safety of their families and communities.

Actionable Steps

Stay informed about local health advisories. If you suspect exposure to rabies or observe unusual behavior in animals, make sure to take prompt action. Regularly vaccinate your pets and maintain a safe distance from wild animals.

Conclusion

While the confirmation of rabies in Florence County is concerning, it is an opportunity to reinforce the importance of preventive measures. By staying vigilant and following health guidelines, we can protect ourselves and our pets from this potentially deadly disease.

What steps are you taking to keep yourself and your animals safe from rabies? Share your thoughts in the comments below and help raise awareness about this important public health issue.