Rabid Bat Confirmed in Charleston County, South Carolina

Rabid Bat Confirmed in Charleston County, South Carolina

In a development that has caused public health concerns in Charleston County, South Carolina, a bat has tested positive for rabies. The bat was found in North Charleston, near Long Shadow Lane and New Ryder Road. This update has been confirmed by the South Carolina Department of Public Health.

No Human Exposure Reported

Although this recent incident is a cause for concern, no human being has reportedly been exposed to the rabid bat. However, one pet, a dog, was exposed, and in accordance with the South Carolina Rabies Control Act, the pet will be put under quarantine. This action is pivotal in monitoring for any signs of infection, due to the exposure and following necessary treatment guidelines.

The Test and Results

The bat discovered in North Charleston was submitted to the South Carolina Department of Public Health Laboratory for testing on July 31. By the following day, August 1, it was confirmed that the bat was carrying the rabies virus.

Warning to the Public

Public health officials strongly advise against handling a bat, dead or alive or any other wild or stray animal with bare hands due to the risk of exposure to diseases like rabies. If it is believed that there has been potential contact with people, pets, or livestock, the bat should be safely trapped in a sealed container without touching it directly. Officials further warned that a bat that has potentially exposed a person or pet to the virus should not be released as it cannot be tested for rabies once released.

Residents seeking further guidance or needing to report a possible exposure are directed to contact their local South Carolina Department of Public Health office. Additional information about rabies can be found on their official website, along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

Public Health Precautions

Rabies is a deadly virus that can cause severe neurological complications if left untreated. Therefore, for everyone’s safety, the public is urged to ensure pets are vaccinated and to stay away from wild or stray animals. Anyone bitten by an animal should seek immediate medical attention to determine if they could have been exposed to rabies and to undergo post-exposure treatment if needed.

The incident has raised the specter of disease transmission from animals to humans in Charleston County, highlighting the need for vigilance among local residents and authorities regarding potential rabies carriers in their vicinity.

With the current situation handled, and no human exposures reported, HERE News Network will continue keeping a close watch on developments and ensuring that the public receives accurate and up-to-date information about the situation in Charleston County.