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MONCKS CORNER, SC (WCSC) – State health officials say a Berkeley County cat tested positive for rabies.
The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control says the cat was found near Land O Pines Circle and Pinopolis Road in Moncks Corner.
The cat was submitted to DHEC for testing on Wednesday and rabies was confirmed on Thursday, according to officials.
Officials say seven people were exposed and referred to their health care providers. In addition, a dog has been abandoned and is being quarantined under the South Carolina Rabies Control Act.
“Rabies is usually transmitted through a bite or scratch, which allows saliva from an infected animal to enter the body of a person or another animal. However, contact of infected saliva or nerve tissue with open wounds or areas such as the eyes, nose or mouth could also potentially transmit rabies, ”said Terri McCollister, team leader of the rabies program. “To reduce the risk of developing rabies, always give place to wild and stray animals. If you see an animal in distress, avoid touching it and seek help from someone trained in handling animals, such as a helper. B. Your local animal welfare officer, an animal welfare officer or a wildlife keeper. Please report all animal bites, scratches and contact with potentially rabid animals to the DHEC. “
Health officials say if you believe your pet has been bitten or scratched by the cat, or is found with wounds of unknown origin, consider that the pet has been exposed to rabies and contact the DHEC environmental affairs office in Charleston at 843-953-0150 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday or after business hours and bank holidays at 888-847-0902 and select option two.
According to DHEC, the cat is the second animal to test positive for rabies in Berkeley County and the 37th case in the state this year.
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