Columbia, South Carolina – A rabid skunk found in Saluda County has prompted a public health response after officials confirmed that one pet and more than a dozen livestock may have been exposed to the fatal disease.
The South Carolina Department of Public Health said the skunk was found near Little Fawn Lane and Front Street in Ward, South Carolina. Laboratory testing later confirmed the animal had rabies. At this time, officials said no human exposures are known.
The case still raised concern because one dog and 14 livestock were potentially exposed. The animals included cows, sheep, goats and pigs. After the possible exposure was identified, DPH worked with its Public Health Veterinarian and the State Veterinarian with Clemson University Livestock Poultry Health to put safety measures in place…