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COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) – The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control says a fox found in Ridgeway tested positive for rabies. Officials say no people have been reported, but one dog has been exposed to the fox. DHEC says the dog will be quarantined.
According to DHEC, the fox was found near Molly Creek Circle and Century Drive. Officials say it was submitted for testing on Aug. 30 and confirmed as rabies the next day.
“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 contact someone who has been trained in handling animals, such as a helper. Please report all animal bites, scratches and contact with potentially rabid animals to the DHEC. “
If you believe your pet has been exposed to a rabid animal, DHEC strongly recommends contacting the DHEC Columbia Environmental Affairs Office at 803-896-0620 during normal business hours (8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday) . To report a bite or exposure after these hours, call the DHEC service number at 888-847-0902 outside of business hours.
More information is available at www.scdhec.gov/rabies.
