South Carolina health officials confirmed a bat in Dorchester County tested positive for rabies on New Year’s Eve, exposing a pet dog now under quarantine per the Rabies Control Act. Residents should avoid handling bats or wild animals bare-handed and trap suspects safely for testing without release.
Exposure Risks
- Direct contact via broken skin or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth) with infected saliva or neural tissue.
- Unnoticed potential bites: Waking to a bat in a room/tent, bats near unattended children/pets/impaired individuals, or known contact.
- Response: Wash contact areas with soap/water, seek medical care immediately.
Quarantine Rules (Rabies Control Act)
Under South Carolina law, exposed vaccinated pets revaccinate and quarantine 45 days; unvaccinated ones quarantine 180 days, vaccinate after 150 days, then release after 30 more if symptom-free. Pets must receive USDA-approved rabies shots from licensed vets or supervised technicians. Call 843-953-4713 (after-hours: 888-847-0902) for exposures.​
Prevention Tips
- Vaccinate pets regularly for continuous protection.
- Report bites/exposures promptly; DHEC ensures post-exposure vaccines availability.​
- Amid Lowcountry rain, secure outdoor areas to limit wildlife access.
Stay cautious during wet weather hikes or events—monitor local DHEC updates for this incident.
