Raccoon Tests Positive for Rabies in Charleston, South Carolina; One Person Exposed
CHARLESTON, South Carolina — The South Carolina Department of Public Health confirmed on November 5 that a raccoon found near Wespanee Drive and Ponce de Leon Avenue in Charleston tested positive for rabies, and that one person was exposed and referred for medical care.
Rabies is a fatal viral disease spread through the bites or scratches of infected animals; once symptoms appear it is almost always incurable, making prompt medical evaluation after contact with a suspected rabid animal essential.
The department reminded Charleston County residents not to approach or handle wild animals that are behaving abnormally or appear sick, to keep pets' rabies vaccinations current as required, and to supervise children outdoors. Anyone who finds a suspected sick animal or is bitten or scratched should contact the local health department or a medical provider promptly. The department said it will continue to follow up on the case and release updates.
Source: South Carolina Department of Public Health
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 图：浣熊。Wikimedia Commons，CC BY 2.0。 / Photo: A raccoon. Via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0.
