3 people exposed to rabid bat in Berkeley County, health officials say

BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) – The state health department announced Thursday that a bat found in Berkeley County was confirmed to have rabies.

The bat was found near Ranger Drive and Mikey Road in Cross, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Health.

Three people were exposed and are receiving treatment from healthcare providers. DPH said the bat was submitted for testing on Monday and confirmed to have rabies on Tuesday.

If you believe you have come into contact with the bat, call the Charleston office at (843) 953-4713 during normal business hours (8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday) or (888) 847-0902 after hours and on holidays.

Health officials said it can be difficult to detect when a person has been bitten.

“People don’t always realize they or a pet have been bitten since bat teeth are tiny and bites are easy to overlook,” said Terri McCollister, Rabies Program manager.