Home / Health / Rabies Alert: Raccoon Exposes Person in Beaufort
Rabies Alert: Raccoon Exposes Person in Beaufort
16 Feb
Summary
- First rabies case in Beaufort County confirmed this year.
- One person was exposed to a rabid raccoon in Moss Creek.
- All mammals can carry and transmit rabies to humans.
Health officials in South Carolina confirmed the first rabies case in Beaufort County this year. A raccoon found in the Moss Creek neighborhood tested positive for the virus last week, prompting health alerts. One person had direct exposure and was advised to seek medical attention.
This discovery marks a significant public health concern, as it is the initial confirmed instance of rabies in Beaufort County for 2026. The South Carolina Department of Public Health reported that any mammal can carry and transmit rabies. Officials are reminding residents to keep pets vaccinated, as this is the most effective protection against the deadly virus.
A second raccoon also tested positive for rabies last week in Pomaria, South Carolina, resulting in one dog being exposed and placed under quarantine. Both animals were confirmed to have the disease following testing. Residents who suspect exposure to a rabid animal are urged to contact the DPH's Beaufort office immediately.
