The South Carolina Department of Public Health has confirmed that a raccoon found near Murraywood and Mapleview drives, which is close to CrossRoads Middle School in Lexington County, tested positive for rabies.

This is the first animal in Lexington County to test positive for rabies in 2026. 

According to the agency, the raccoon was submitted to the DPH laboratory for testing on Feb. 3 and was confirmed to have rabies on Feb. 4.

DPH defines an exposure as“direct contact (broken skin, mucous membranes in the eyes, nose or mouth) with saliva or brain/nervous system tissue from an infected animal.”

Terri McCollister, rabies program manager, advised anyone who may have been exposed to immediately wash the affected area with soap and water and contact the local public health officials for further guidance.

McCollister also said keeping pets updated on their rabies vaccinations is the most effective way to protect people and animals from the virus. 

DPH said that if you believe you, someone you know or your pets have come in contact with the raccoon or another animal that potentially has rabies, call DPH's Columbia office at 803-896-4680 during normal business hours (8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday) or after hours and on holidays at 888-847-0902 (select Option 2).

Since 2002, South Carolina has averaged 136 positive cases of rabies a year, and in 2025, three of the 101 confirmed rabies cases in South Carolina were in Lexington County.