SIMPSONVILLE, S.C. (WSPA) — A dog was euthanized after being exposed to a rabid skunk in Greenville County, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (SCDPH) said Tuesday.
Spotted in Simpsonville
According to state health officials, the skunk was found near Plum Orchard Court and Farmbrook Way in Simpsonville.
The animal was sent to DPH’s laboratory for testing on December 12, and was later confirmed to have rabies on Monday.
Dog quarantined after rabies exposure in Pickens Co.
The dog was put down, officials explained, as a result of injuries sustained from the skunk.
Additionally, one person who was exposed to the skunk has been referred to their healthcare provider for treatment.
Keeping your pets safe
Health leaders at SCDPH said rabies is usually spread via saliva through a bite or scratch that infects another animal.
“However, infected saliva or neural tissue contact with open wounds or areas such as the eyes, nose, or mouth could also potentially transmit rabies,” said Terri McCollister, the manager of the SCDPH rabies program. “To reduce the risk of getting rabies, always give wild and stray animals their space.”…