One person exposed to rabid fox found in Lexington County, state department says

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control confirmed Thursday that a fox rounded up days earlier has tested positive for rabies and that at least one person was exposed to the animal.

“Exposure” could mean they were bitten, scratched, or in any way came in contact with the rabid animal’s bodily fluids.

The individual had a run-in with the fox on May 29 and has since been “referred to their healthcare provider,” DHEC said in a release.

Authorities found the fox near Windsor Road and Stratford Road in Cayce, and took it in for testing on June 1, the release said.

“To reduce the risk of getting rabies, always give wild and stray animals plenty of space,” said David Vaughan, director of DHEC’s Onsite Wastewater, Rabies Prevention, and Enforcement Division. “If you see an animal in need, avoid touching it as the possibility of exposure to rabies can occur anywhere and anytime. Contact someone trained in handling animals, such as your local animal control officer or wildlife rehabilitator.”

The fox is the seventh animal to test positive for rabies in Lexington County so far this year, according to DHEC. There have been 51 cases statewide, and South Carolina averages 130 a year.

The department released two other reports of rabid animals Thursday -- an infected raccoon found in North Charleston, and a skunk in York which “potentially” exposed a person to the disease.

To contact DHEC’s Environmental Affairs office in Columbia regarding rabies exposure, dial (803) 896-0620.