Bat found in North Charleston tests positive for rabies; 2 people exposed

DORCHESTER COUNTY, S.C. (WCIV) — The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) says a bat found in North Charleston tested positive for rabies, and two people were exposed to the infected animal.

The bat was located near Sentry Circle and Royal Palm Lane, officials say. On Wednesday, tests on the bat came back positive for the virus.

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The two people who were exposed were referred to their healthcare providers, according to DHEC.

"Never handle a bat or any wild or stray animal, alive or dead, with your bare hands," says Terri McCollister, Rabies Program Team Leader.

Health officials say that because bats have relatively small teeth, it's not always easy to tell when someone or something has been bitten.

If you believe that you, someone you know, or one of your pets have come into contact with a rabid animal, you are urged to call DHEC's Environmental Affairs Charleston office at (843) 953-0150 during normal business hours (8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday) or after hours and on holidays at (888) 847-0902 (Select Option 2).

For more information on rabies, visit www.scdhec.gov/rabies.