Skunk in Johnston tests positive for rabies, officials warn
JOHNSTON, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) - The South Carolina Department of Public Health confirmed that a skunk found near Lee and Mims streets in Johnston has tested positive for rabies.
No people are known to have been exposed.
One dog was exposed and will be quarantined.
The skunk was submitted to a state laboratory for testing on Feb. 27 and was confirmed to have rabies Feb. 28.
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If you believe you, someone you know, or your pets have come in with this skunk or another animal that potentially has rabies, call 803-642-1637 during normal business hours (8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday) or after hours and on holidays at 888-847-0902 (Option 2).
“Keeping your pets up to date on their rabies vaccination is the easiest way to protect you and your family from this deadly virus,” said Terri McCollister, rabies program director. “Any mammal has the ability to carry and transmit the disease to people or pets. Therefore, give wild and stray animals plenty of space.”
In South Carolina, rabies is most often found in wildlife such as raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bats, but pets are just as susceptible to the virus. If you see an animal in need, avoid touching it.
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This skunk is the first animal in Saluda County to test positive for rabies in 2025. There have been 10 cases of rabid animals statewide this year. Since 2002, South Carolina has averaged approximately 144 positive cases a year. In 2024, four of the 81 confirmed rabies cases in South Carolina were in Saluda County.
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