CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) — Four people and a cat were exposed to a rabid bat in a West Ashley neighborhood earlier this week.
State health officials say the sick bat was found near Huntington Drive and Cecillia Drive in Charleston and was submitted to the Department of Public Health’s laboratory on Monday. It was confirmed to have rabies the following day.
Four people were exposed and referred to their healthcare providers. A cat was also exposed and will be quarantined, which is required by the South Carolina Rabies Control Act.
“Rabies is usually transmitted through a bite or scratch that allows saliva from an infected animal to be introduced into the body of a person or another animal,” said Terri McCollister, program director for DPH’s Rabies Program. “However, infected saliva or neural tissue contact with open wounds or areas such as the eyes, nose, or mouth could also potentially transmit rabies.”
If you, your pet, or someone you know came into contact with the rabid bat, you should contact DPH’s Lowcountry Charleston office by calling 843-953-4713.