Hilton Head bat tests positive for rabies; one person exposed

HILTON HEAD, S.C. (WTOC) - A bat found on Hilton Head Island has tested positive for rabies, marking the second confirmed case of the virus in Beaufort County this year, state health officials announced.

The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed the positive test on Aug. 25 after the bat was found near Headlands Drive and Oyster Rake Lane. Officials said at least one person was exposed and has been referred to a healthcare provider.

“Rabid bats have been known to transmit the rabies virus,” said Terri McCollister, Rabies Program manager. “People don’t always realize they or a pet have been bitten since bat teeth are tiny and bites are easy to overlook.”

Health officials warning residents never to handle bats or wild animals with bare hands. If you or your pets had contact with this bat or another potentially rabid animal, call the DPH Charleston office at (843) 953-4713 during business hours, or (888) 847-0902 after hours.

DPH also confirmed rabies cases this week in a Greenville County skunk, as well as bats in Greenwood and Pickens counties, bringing the statewide total to 78 cases in 2026.