NewsDesk @bactiman63

South Carolina health officials announced the confirmation of rabies in a calf found near Red Feather Road and Pine Grove Road in Seneca, Oconee County.

Image by Francesco Pitarresi from Pixabay

Three people were exposed and have been referred to their healthcare providers. 22 cows and 21 calves in the same pasture were potentially exposed.

“Keeping your pets and livestock current on their rabies vaccination is a responsibility that comes with owning an animal. It is one of the easiest and most effective ways you can protect yourself, your family, your pets, and your livestock from this fatal disease. That is an investment worth making to provide yourself some peace of mind.” said Terri McCollister, DHEC’s Rabies Program Team Leader.

Livestock are susceptible to rabies and all livestock with USDA approved rabies vaccinations should be vaccinated.

There have been 79 cases of rabid animals statewide this year. Since 2002, South Carolina has averaged approximately 148 positive cases a year.