Rabid raccoon found near West Ashley exposes one person in Charleston County

Health officials confirmed that a raccoon found near Wespanee Drive and Ponce de Leon Avenue in Charleston tested positive for rabies, according to WCIV and WCBD reports.

The South Carolina Department of Public Health said the raccoon was submitted for testing on November 3 and confirmed rabid the following day. One person was exposed to the animal and has been referred to a healthcare provider for evaluation.

This incident marks the 13th rabid animal detected in Charleston County in 2026, with 99 cases reported statewide so far this year. Rabies is commonly found in local wildlife such as raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bats, and pets are also at risk.

Officials advise residents to avoid touching wild or sick animals and to contact trained personnel like animal control officers or wildlife rehabilitators if they encounter an animal in need of help.

In October, another rabid raccoon was found a few miles away near Sam Rittenberg Boulevard and Old Towne Road, highlighting ongoing concerns about rabies exposure in the Charleston area.