On January 7, 2020, a raccoon in Sea Pines tested positive for the rabies virus. The rabid raccoon is now deceased.

Information from SC DHEC: Dated 1-8-20

Due to the possibility of the spread of rabies, DHEC urges everyone to use caution when dealing with wild or stray animals.

If you have reason to believe that you, your family members, or your pets have come into contact with this raccoon or another animal that potentially has rabies, please call DHEC’s Environmental Affairs Beaufort office at (843) 846-1030 during normal business hours (M-F, 8:30-5:00).

If your pet appears to have been bitten or scratched by another animal or is found with wounds of unknown origin, please consider that your pet could have been exposed to rabies and contact the Beaufort office (843) 846-1030. This is especially important as rabies has been confirmed in the Sea Pines area. Use caution when handling injured pets and avoid contact with wounds and saliva. Take any injured pet to a veterinarian so the wounds can be treated and rabies vaccination can be discussed.

Please remember that rabies vaccinations for pets are required by the South Carolina Rabies Control Act. If your pet does not have a current rabies vaccination, contact a veterinarian as soon as possible for an appointment.

For more information on rabies in South Carolina, visit SC DHEC’s website: https://www.scdhec.gov/rabies.