The South Carolina Department of Public Health announced that an unvaccinated beef cow in Anderson County tested positive for rabies, near the town of Starr on Gentry Road and Highway 81 S.
According to a news release from the South Carolina Department of Public Health, the cow was submitted to DPH’s laboratory for testing on Dec. 31, 2025.
- The cow was confirmed to have rabies on Jan. 2, 2026.
- The cow died, and 19 other cows were quarantined for potential exposure.
- This case marked South Carolina’s first rabies case in 2026.
- There are no known human exposures linked to this incident.
The South Carolina Department of Public Health strongly advises residents to report any animal bites or potential exposures immediately.
Protecting farm animals and pets
Authorities urge local farmers to vaccinate their livestock to prevent further outbreaks.
Residents are also encouraged to report any animal bites or suspicious contact with wildlife to their local Department of Public Health office…