Greenville County, South Carolina, August 13, 2025
News Summary
A recent discovery of a rabid bat in Greenville County has raised public health alarms, especially following confirmed exposures to a human and two cats. The South Carolina Department of Public Health verified the rabies diagnosis after testing the bat. The incident marks the fourth rabies-positive animal in the county this year and is part of a broader spike in rabies cases across South Carolina. Health officials urge residents to avoid contact with bats and keep pets up to date on vaccinations to mitigate risks.
Greenville County, South Carolina — A rabid bat was recently discovered in Greenville County, raising public health concerns as authorities confirmed one human exposure and two exposed cats. The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed the diagnosis of rabies following testing of the bat, which was submitted for examination on August 8 and confirmed to be rabid on August 11. The bat was found near Oak Branch Drive and Open Range Lane.
In light of this incident, one individual exposed to the bat has been referred to their healthcare provider for further evaluation. Concurrently, the two cats that came into contact with the bat are subject to a mandatory quarantine as required by the South Carolina Rabies Control Act.
This event marks the fourth rabies-positive animal identified in Greenville County this year. In total, 50 rabies cases have been reported throughout South Carolina so far in 2025. Rabies is classified as a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans, which emphasizes the need for vigilance and precaution.
Each year, South Carolina witnesses approximately 150 rabies cases, with around 30% of those involving human exposure. Given the risks, the DPH strongly advises the public to avoid handling bats or any wild or stray animals with bare hands. In situations where exposure to a potentially rabid animal has occurred, individuals should wash the affected area with soap and water and seek medical assistance promptly.
DPH also encourages pet owners to keep their pets current with rabies vaccinations to safeguard against the disease. In an effort to mitigate risks, individuals who believe they may have come into contact with the rabid bat are urged to contact DPH’s Upstate Greenville-Spartanburg office during business hours at (864) 372-3270 or after hours at (888) 847-0902.
It is critically important for the public to understand that if a bat is suspected of exposing a person or pet, it must not be released, as this would prevent testing for rabies.
Background on Rabies in South Carolina
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans. Once clinical symptoms appear, it is nearly always fatal. The primary carriers of rabies in South Carolina include bats, raccoons, and skunks. Community awareness and vaccination protocols have been established to control and prevent the spread of this disease.
Key Recommendations
- Avoid handling wild or stray animals.
- Keep pets vaccinated against rabies.
- Seek medical care and wash any exposure sites promptly.
- Report potential exposures to health authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I encounter a bat?
If you encounter a bat, do not attempt to handle it. Instead, contact local health authorities for assistance and avoid immediate exposure.
How can rabies be prevented in pets?
Keep your pets up to date on their rabies vaccinations, and do not allow them to roam freely outdoors where exposure to wild animals might occur.
What are the symptoms of rabies in humans?
Symptoms of rabies in humans can include fever, headache, weakness, and confusion. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms such as paralysis, hallucinations, and hydrophobia may occur.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location of Incident | Greenville County, South Carolina, near Oak Branch Drive and Open Range Lane |
| Confirmed Cases in 2025 | 4 rabies-positive animals in Greenville County |
| Total Rabies Cases in SC (2025) | 50 reported cases |
| Rabies Diagnosis Timeline | Submitted for testing on August 8, confirmed rabid on August 11 |
| Public Health Recommendations | Avoid handling bats, keep pets vaccinated, wash exposure areas |
