Newberry County, September 4, 2025
News Summary
A Newberry County Sheriff’s deputy has received negative rabies test results after being exposed to a suspected rabid coyote. The incident raised public health concerns as the deputy was involved in removing the animal in the Beth Eden community. Authorities confirmed the negative result, addressing fears about rabies exposure in the local community. The swift response from law enforcement and public health officials helped mitigate potential health risks. This incident underscores the importance of vigilance regarding rabies and public safety.
Newberry County Deputy Exposed to Suspected Rabid Coyote Receives Negative Test Results
A Newberry County Sheriff’s deputy has been cleared after being exposed to a coyote suspected of having rabies. The incident occurred while the deputy was aiding in the removal of the animal in the Beth Eden community. This exposure raised public health concerns, as rabies is a serious viral disease that can be transmitted to humans through animal bites or scratches.
The coyote exhibited unusual behavior near a resident’s home, prompting the resident to take action by shooting the animal. Faced with difficulty obtaining assistance from various agencies, the resident contacted the Sheriff’s Office for help. The coyote’s aggressive nature and proximity to residential areas heightened fears among local residents regarding potential rabies exposure.
Following the incident, the coyote was tested for rabies, and the results returned negative, as confirmed by authorities late Tuesday. Sheriff Lee Foster emphasized the importance of addressing such situations promptly and commended the deputy for responding to the call and ensuring safety in the community.
The rabies testing process was orchestrated by Pet Care of Newberry in collaboration with Newberry Health. Employees from the Department of Public Health worked diligently over the holiday weekend to expedite the processing of the sample, ensuring that the results were conveyed quickly. The delay in testing was primarily due to the state holiday, which impacted the speed at which the sample could be processed.
Fortunately, the deputy will not require further treatment or testing following the confirmation of the negative rabies result. This outcome has provided reassurance to the local community, who were understandably concerned about the potential health risks associated with rabies exposure.
Understanding Rabies
Rabies is a preventable viral disease that can be fatal if left untreated after exposure. It is primarily transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal via bites or scratches. Common carrier species in wildlife include raccoons, bats, skunks, and coyotes. Vaccination for pets and wildlife management are crucial elements in controlling rabies transmission and preventing human cases.
In South Carolina, years of public health efforts have focused on rabies prevention, including rabies vaccination programs for domestic animals and wildlife education campaigns. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of continued vigilance against rabies, particularly in areas where wild animals may come into contact with human populations.
Conclusion
The swift response by law enforcement and health officials in Newberry County helped mitigate potential health risks following the deputy’s exposure to a suspected rabid coyote. Thanks to the prompt testing process and negative results, the situation was resolved without further complications for the deputy or community residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should you do if you are bitten by a coyote?
If bitten by a coyote, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. Report the incident to local health authorities or animal control to help assess the likelihood of rabies exposure.
How can rabies be prevented?
Rabies can be prevented through vaccination of pets, responsible pet ownership, and avoiding contact with wild animals. If exposed, rabies post-exposure prophylaxis is crucial.
What are the symptoms of rabies in animals?
Common symptoms of rabies in animals include aggressive behavior, excessive salivation, difficulty swallowing, and paralysis. If you suspect an animal has rabies, contact local animal control.
Key Features of Rabies Exposure Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Newberry County, Beth Eden community |
| Incident Type | Exposure to suspected rabid coyote |
| Response Team | Newberry County Sheriff’s Office, Pet Care of Newberry, Newberry Health |
| Test Result | Negative for rabies |
| Public Health Impact | No further treatment required for the deputy |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
York County Issues Rabies Alert After Encounter with Rabid Skunk
Rabid Raccoon Exposes Two Pets to Rabies in Beaufort County, South Carolina
Additional Resources
- WLTX: Deputy Cleared in Rabies Scare
- ABC News 4: Deputy Exposed to Potentially Rabid Coyote
- WISTV: Midlands Deputy Potentially Exposed to Rabid Coyote
- Cola Daily: Newberry County Deputy Potentially Exposed to Rabies
- York Daily Record: Coyote Tests Positive for Rabies
- Wikipedia: Rabies
- Google Search: Rabies Prevention
- Google Scholar: Rabies
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rabies
- Google News: Rabies Incidents
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
