SCDPH Confirms Two Rabid Bats in Midlands, One Human and One Pet Exposed

Key points

• SCDPH confirmed two rabid bats found in Piedmont (Greenville County) and Rock Hill (York County) on Oct. 26, 2026.
• One person exposed to the Greenville County bat was referred to a healthcare provider; one pet was also exposed, though the specific county for the pet was not disclosed.
• Both bats were submitted for testing on Oct. 23, 2026.
• The Greenville County bat is the sixth rabid animal confirmed in that county in 2026; the York County bat is the eighth in that county this year.
• Statewide, 97 animals have tested positive for rabies in 2026, compared to 101 in 2025 and an average of 136 annually since 2002.
• SCDPH advises washing exposed areas with soap and water and contacting the rabies prevention program at 888-847-0902 if exposure is suspected.

Background

This incident follows a pattern of increased rabid bat detections in the U.S. during 2026, including record highs in Los Angeles County and multiple cases in Illinois. The current South Carolina cases align with seasonal warnings about indoor bat encounters and the importance of pet vaccinations.

How outlets are covering it

All four sources (WYFF, Greenville Journal, Fort Mill Sun, WACH.com) agree on the core facts: two rabid bats, one human exposure, one pet exposure, and the testing timeline. WYFF and WACH.com emphasize the general risk of unnoticed bites. The Greenville Journal focuses on the specific human exposure and referral to a healthcare provider. The Fort Mill Sun provides the most detailed context, including the statewide average of 136 cases since 2002 and the 2025 comparison, while noting the York County case is one shy of the 2025 total. All sources quote Terri McCollister, SCDPH Rabies Program Manager, on the difficulty of detecting bat bites and the importance of not handling wild animals.

Why it matters

Rabies is a fatal disease, and bat bites are often unnoticed. The confirmation of two rabid bats in populated areas of South Carolina highlights the ongoing risk to humans and pets, especially during fall when bats may seek shelter indoors. Prompt medical attention and vaccination are critical for exposure prevention.

What to watch

SCDPH will continue monitoring for rabid animals and advising the public on prevention. Residents are urged to report any bat encounters and ensure pets are vaccinated. The exposed individual and pet will receive medical follow-up as directed by healthcare providers.