Foaming at the mouth, bloodshot eyes, vicious snarling.

Those may be the images we imagine when we hear that an animal is infected with rabies.

But how often do we see an actual case of rabies?

Not often in Lexington County, according to the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control.

2017 saw only 3 cases - 1 skunk and 2 raccoons tested positive. This year, 1 fox and 2 raccoons were found with the disease.

Last week, SCDHEC reported 3 people had been exposed to rabies in Oconee County.

A cow was responsible for the exposures.

SC law requires all dogs, cats and ferrets be vaccinated against rabies but not farm animals.

DHEC strongly recommends vaccinating animals with frequent exposure to humans and animals used for raw milk production.

Only mammals can get the disease.

The primary carriers of rabies in SC are:

• raccoons

• skunks

• foxes

• bats.

There is no cure, but rabies can be treated with prompt medical care after exposure.

It’ll cost you. DHEC reports treatment typically exceeds $8,000.

To prevent potential exposure remember:

• stay a safe distance from

all wild animals. Never

pet a wild animal.

• make sure your pets are

current on vaccinations.

• don’t keep wild animals

as pets

• keep pets safely confined

to your property.

Report any scratch or bite by a wild, stray or unvaccinated animal to your doctor. They will report the incident to DHEC.