WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina | Rabid fox bites shopper near Devine Street

Rabid fox bites shopper near Devine Street

COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) - The woman was shopping in the area of Devine and South Beltline streets when the fox attacked her.

The fox tested positive for rabies, so the woman must recieve inoculations to prevent the disease.

Sue Ferguson of DHEC's Bureau of Environmental Health says, "Because rabies is fatal to humans and animals, anyone bitten, scratched or otherwise exposed to the saliva of a rabid animal must undergo immediate preventive measures to stop the virus from reaching the brain."

"Be wary of tame animals 'acting wild' and wild animals 'acting tame' and if you are bitten or scratched by a wild animal or domestic pet, immediately wash the wound with plenty of soap and water," she says.

"DHEC advises the public to be sure to get immediate medical attention for any possible exposure to the saliva of a rabid animal and to be sure to report the incident to DHEC."

Ferguson says that about 400 South Carolinians have to undergo preventive treatment for rabies every year after being bitten by a rabid or suspected rabid animal.

According to Ferguson, this is the first confirmed rabid animal in Richland County in 2008. In 2007, 10 animals were confirmed with rabies in the county and there were 162 confirmed cases of rabies in animals in South Carolina. So far this year, there have been 10 confirmed cases in animals in the state.

Pets can also be exposed to and die from rabies. Many areas offer spring rabies inoculation clinics.

For more information on rabies, click here>>

Posted by Chantelle Janelle