News Summary
Recent rabies cases in Anderson and Spartanburg Counties have raised alarm among local pet owners. A skunk and a raccoon tested positive for rabies, triggering quarantine measures for affected animals. Health officials stress the importance of rabies vaccinations for pets and livestock to prevent further transmission. With ongoing surveillance revealing more rabid animals, residents are urged to remain vigilant and ensure their pets are adequately vaccinated.
Anderson County, South Carolina – The South Carolina Department of Public Health confirmed that a skunk and a raccoon tested positive for rabies, prompting immediate concerns for local pet owners and livestock guardians. The rabid skunk was located in Anderson County near Joyce Road and Ross Road in Liberty, which led to potential exposure for two cows. Concurrently, a rabid raccoon was discovered in Spartanburg County, specifically near Virginia Avenue and Green Acres Street in Lyman, resulting in one dog being placed under quarantine.
The raccoon was submitted for rabies testing on September 17 and was confirmed positive on September 18. Similarly, the skunk underwent testing on September 18 and was confirmed to carry the virus the following day. In light of these findings, health officials are stressing the necessity of maintaining current rabies vaccinations for pets and livestock to mitigate the risk of rabies transmission.
Vaccination Importance
Terri McCollister, the manager of the Department of Public Health’s Rabies Program, emphasized that vaccination is vital for protecting both animals and humans from rabies. Rabies is inherently present within the wild animal populations of South Carolina, with state laws mandating that all dogs, cats, and ferrets be vaccinated against the disease. Continuous protection requires revaccination at regular intervals.
Recent statistics indicate that there were 73 confirmed rabies cases across the state in 2025. The skunk represented the eighth case in Anderson County, while the raccoon signified the third case in Spartanburg County. Historically, South Carolina has averaged around 144 rabies cases annually since 2002. In 2024, the state recorded 81 confirmed cases, including three from Anderson County and one from Spartanburg County. Notably, Greenville County documented three rabies cases in 2024 but has reported none in 2025.
Transmission and Risk Awareness
Rabies is primarily transmitted through the saliva or neural tissue of infected animals, with common carriers including raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bats. However, any mammal has the potential to carry and transmit the virus to humans or pets. Public health officials urge individuals to maintain a safe distance from wild and stray animals. In the event of encounters with distressed animals, it is recommended to contact professionals for assistance.
The risk of exposure to rabies increases through bites, scratches, or contact with broken skin from infected animals. Anyone who suspects potential exposure to rabies is advised to promptly wash the affected area with soap and water and seek medical attention. Furthermore, the South Carolina Department of Public Health encourages the immediate reporting of all animal bites and potential rabies exposures to local authorities.
Recent Rabies Cases
Along with the recent skunk and raccoon cases, a fox in Iva has also tested positive for rabies, leading to exposure for a person and another dog, which is now subject to quarantine in accordance with state regulations. Ongoing surveillance efforts have also identified additional rabid animals, including a raccoon in Anderson County and a cat in Florence County.
This alarming trend underscores the necessity for heightened awareness and vigilance regarding rabies prevention measures. Residents are strongly encouraged to ensure their pets are vaccinated and to stay informed about local rabies cases to help protect themselves and their animals from potential exposure.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
York County Issues Rabies Alert After Encounter with Rabid Skunk
York County Faces Increased Rabies Risk Following Positive Skunk Test
Additional Resources
- WYFF4: Rabies Cases in South Carolina
- Wikipedia: Rabies
- Greenville Online: South Carolina Rabies Cases
- Google Search: Rabies South Carolina 2025
- Fox Carolina: Person and Dog Exposed to Rabid Fox
- Google Scholar: Rabies Transmission
- WYFF4: Confirmed Rabies Cases in Anderson and Florence Counties
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rabies
- Fox Carolina: Rabid Raccoon Confirmed in Anderson County
- Google News: Rabies South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg 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 Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. 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.
