Rabid Skunk Confirmed in Laurens County; Three Pets Exposed

The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed that a skunk found in the Fountain Inn area of Laurens County has tested positive for rabies. The animal was discovered near Garrett Patton Road and Highway 418.

According to DPH, no people are known to have been exposed. However, three dogs were in contact with the skunk and will be quarantined in accordance with the South Carolina Rabies Control Act.

This marks the sixth confirmed rabid animal in Laurens County in 2025.

The skunk was submitted for testing on November 19 and was confirmed positive on November 20.

DPH urges residents to remain vigilant about rabies prevention, especially for pets and livestock. South Carolina law requires all dogs, cats, and ferrets to be vaccinated and kept current on their rabies shots. Livestock—particularly cattle and horses—are also susceptible to rabies and should be vaccinated when USDA-approved vaccines are available.

“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,” said Terri McCollister, DPH’s Rabies Program manager.

Anyone who believes they, a family member, or their pets may have come into contact with this skunk—or any potentially rabid animal—should immediately contact DPH’s Upstate Greenville-Spartanburg office at (864) 372-3270during normal business hours (8:30 a.m.–5 p.m., Monday–Friday). After hours, weekends, and holidays, call (888) 847-0902 and select Option 2.

Statewide, 94 animals have tested positive for rabies so far this year. Laurens County reported four confirmed cases in 2024.