**Rabid Skunk Incident in Laurens County Sparks Health Concerns**
**Laurens County, S.C.** – Residents of Fountain Inn got a scare this past week when a skunk in the area tested positive for rabies. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH), the skunk was **found near Fairview Road and Grandwood Boulevard** before being submitted for testing on August 1. The concern was confirmed a day later, on August 2, when the test results came back positive for rabies.
**Exposure and Caution**
One individual has already been referred to their healthcare provider after being exposed to the rabid skunk. This prompts a significant reminder from authorities: **”Keeping your pets up to date on their rabies vaccination is the easiest way to protect you and your family from this deadly virus,”** says Terri McCollister, Rabies Program Director.
**Statistics and Safety Tips**
This is the **second animal in Laurens County** to test positive for rabies this year, contributing to a total of **forty-six cases statewide**. To keep safe, it’s important to give wild and stray animals plenty of space, ensuring they don’t come into contact either with humans or pets.
**What to Do If Exposed**
If you believe you or your pets might have been exposed to rabies, the DPH advises contacting their Greenwood office during regular hours at **(864) 942-3600** or after hours at **(888) 847-0902**. For a more localized point of contact, you can find information for your local Public Health office at **dph.sc.gov/RabiesContacts**.
**Learn More**
For comprehensive information on rabies, you can visit the **DPH** website at **dph.sc.gov/rabies** or check out the **CDC’s** dedicated rabies page at **cdc.gov/rabies**.
Remember, any mammal has the ability to carry and transmit rabies, so it’s crucial to stay vigilant and act promptly if you suspect exposure. Always keep your pets’ vaccinations current to safeguard your family from this dangerous virus.
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Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON
The CLINTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREClinton.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Clinton, Laurens County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Discovery, Clinton Community Day, and performances at the Whitten Center Amphitheater. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Laurens County Historical Society, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and education that power the local economy such as Milliken & Company and Presbyterian College. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
