Catawba, SC (Tega Cay Sun) – A bat found near Wildwood Creek Trail and Ole Simpson Place in Catawba, South Carolina has tested positive for rabies, according to the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). Two people who may have been exposed to the bat have been advised to contact their healthcare providers. Three dogs and five cats that were also exposed to the bat will be quarantined for 45 days.
DHEC advised “If you believe you, someone you know or your pets have come in contact with this bat or another animal that potentially has rabies, please call DHEC’s Public Health Rock Hill office at (803) 909-7096 during normal business hours (8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday) or after hours and on holidays at (888) 847-0902 (Select Option 2).”
It is important to never handle a bat or any wild or stray animal, alive or dead, with your bare hands. Here are some additional tips to help prevent the spread of rabies:
- Keep your pets up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
- Do not allow your pets to interact with wild animals.
- If you find a bat in your home, do not touch it. Call a professional wildlife removal company to remove the bat.
- If you are bitten by a wild animal, seek medical attention immediately.
Rabies is a serious disease that can be fatal if not treated. By following these tips, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from rabies.
The full DHEC press release is available here.
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Thomas Hyslip lives in Tega Cay with his wife and daughter. After 27 years in the U.S. Army and Federal Law Enforcement, he retired to pursue his passion for teaching. Tom is now an Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Florida. In 2 short years he has won 10 awards from the South Carolina Press Association, including first place in column writing, education beat reporting and best podcast.
