- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:, Oct. 6, 2025 COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed that a raccoon and two bats have tested positive for rabies in separate incidents. In Laurens County, the raccoon that tested positive for rabies was found near Simpson Creek and Neely Ferry roads in Laurens, S.C. One cat was exposed and will be quarantined as required in the South Carolina Rabies Control…, 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.” Because of this, you should always assume a person or pet has potentially been bitten when: They wake up to find a bat in a room or tent; A bat is found where children, pets, or persons with impaired mental capacity (intoxicated or mentally disabled) have been left unattended;…, McCollister said, . You cannot tell if a bat, or any other animal, has rabies by simply looking at it. Rabies must be confirmed in a laboratory. Unusual behavior in bats that might indicate the animal has rabies includes daytime activity, inability to fly, and being found in places they are not usually seen, like in your home or on your lawn. An exposure is defined as direct contact (such as through broken skin or…
- Residents Encouraged to Continue Submitting Dead Birds for Testing to Help DPH Track West Nile VirusFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: , July 24, 2024 COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is reminding residents that they can assist the agency in tracking West Nile virus this summer by submitting , certain species, of dead birds for lab testing. DPH’s dead bird surveillance program helps the agency identify where and when there is an increase in West Nile virus (WNV) activity, as a high rate of birds infected with the disease indicates an overall increase of the virus in a certain area. DPH notifies local officials if there is indication of increased WNV activity within their community so they can take…, said Dr. Chris Evans, State Public Health Entomologist., “This is a unique opportunity for the public to proactively assist their public health agency in staying ahead of a potential health risk.” Mosquitoes become infected with WNV when they feed on infected birds that carry the virus in their blood. After one to two weeks, infected mosquitoes can transmit WNV to people and other animals. The primary way to get West Nile virus is from the bite of an…, DPH doesn’t perform mosquito control, . However, the agency does provide current information that helps individuals, communities and local mosquito control programs take action to reduce mosquito populations and prevent bites. Mosquito control programs are managed at the local level. The amount of WNV activity varies from year to year. In 2023, 43 birds were tested from 18 counties, five of which tested positive for West Nile virus…, crows, blue jays, house finches, house sparrows and other songbirds, that appear not to have been injured and are not decayed. These species of birds are more susceptible to WNV than other species, making them good candidates for testing. Birds of other types will be tested on a case-by-case basis. , Deceased birds can be reported or submitted to DPH at local public health departments through Nov. 30., To safely collect a dead bird, residents should: Use gloves or pick up the bird with doubled, plastic bags. Do not touch a bird, dead or alive, with bare hands. Keep the bagged bird cool until it can be placed on ice or in a refrigerator. If you can’t deliver the bird carcass to DPH within 36 hours of collection, freeze it until you are able to deliver it or have it shipped. , Download and complete a , Dead Bird Submission and Reporting Sheet for West Nile Virus, and take the sheet and dead bird to a local, DPH health clinic, during normal business hours (8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday)., WIC-only public health departments can’t accept birds. For more information, including locating a local DPH office for submitting deceased birds, visit dph.sc.gov/birdtesting or contact the Vector-Borne Diseases Laboratory at 803-896-3802 or vector@dph.sc.gov . Additional information about WNV and mosquito management tips , are available at dph.sc.gov ###
- South Carolina has reported seven poisonings that required hospitalization associated with Diamond Shruumz or other mushroom-containing chocolate products, , FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:, July 25, 2024 Columbia, S.C. – The, South Carolina Department of Public Health, (, DPH, ) is warning consumers not to eat, sell, or serve Diamond Shruumz-brand chocolate bars, gummies, or cones. These products, which were recalled by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in June , have been linked to severe illness, including seizures, nervous system depression, muscle tremors, abnormal heart rate, mental confusion, nausea and vomiting. “DPH has been working closely with our…, said Dr. Edward Simmer, DPH director. , Use of these products has been linked to poisonings in 74 people across 28 states with a high hospitalization rate, including two potentially associated deaths. South Carolina has reported, seven poisonings, that required hospitalization associated with Diamond Shruumz or other mushroom-containing chocolate products. “Poison centers across the United States, including the Palmetto Poison Center, which serves all of South Carolina, have received reports of severe toxicity from the consumption of Diamond Shruumz- brand chocolate bars, cones, and gummies.” said, Dr. William Richardson, Medical Director of Palmetto Poison Center, . Some people experiencing illness after consuming the products were critically ill and required intensive medical treatment. A recall of Diamond Shruumz products was issued on June 27. However, these products may still be on shelves in some stores or available for purchase online. Commonly called microdose “edibles,” these products contain a proprietary blend of mushrooms and other…, " said Sara Goldsby, Director of the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services., "Our first priority is protecting our children’s safety and health. When it comes to talking about the dangers of substances like the mushrooms in Diamond Shruumz products, it’s best to have conversations early and often, and our Open Conversation SC initiative provides the necessary tools at openconversationsc.com ." To report a poisoning, call South Carolina’s Palmetto Poison Center at 1-…, July 31, 2024, update, – A list of store names and locations where the recalled products were available for retail sale is included in the recall announcement. There may be additional retailers not included on this list that are continuing to sell the recalled product. This list will be updated by the FDA as additional stores are identified. ###
- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:, Apr. 7, 2025 COLUMBIA, S.C. – The week of April 7-13 marks the 30th anniversary of National Public Health Week. The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is celebrating the state’s progress in the field of public health while highlighting the need for continued efforts to improve the health and well-being of everyone in South Carolina. Each April, National Public Health Week is…, said Dr. Edward Simmer, interim DPH director, . “At DPH, we have made a concerted effort to hear from our state’s residents and ensure our programs reflect their thoughts, ideas and needs. This includes increasing our outreach and engagement efforts to community- and faith-based organizations, local governments, and other stakeholders across the state. Thanks to the work of our talented and dedicated staff, partners and communities, we have…, Simmer said, . “DPH is committed to continuing to work with our partners to improve the state of health in South Carolina. Together, we can make South Carolina the healthiest state in the nation.” DPH continues to look to the future of public health in the state, including: Deploying three new mobile health units in May across the state, including in rural areas. These are essentially “health departments on…, Simmer said, . “We could not accomplish all that we do without the dedication and service of our employees. Public Health Week gives our agency the opportunity to reflect on the positive steps we’ve taken to improve the health of so many South Carolinians while looking ahead at what we want to accomplish moving forward.” If you are interested in joining DPH’s team of professionals who are a passion for making…
- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:, May 6, 2025 COLUMBIA, S.C. — National Nurses Week is celebrated annually May 6-12, and the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is using this observance to applaud the 96,260 licensed nurses across the state, including the hundreds who work tirelessly at DPH, and encourages South Carolinians to thank the nurses in their communities. DPH’s approximately 400 public health nurses work at…, said Kathryn Gramling, DPH’s State Director of Public Health Nursing, . “They embrace service, inspire innovation, promote teamwork, and demonstrate excellence as they care for our clients and their families. The positive impacts they make helps improve quality of life and promotes healthy people and communities throughout South Carolina.” , Additional highlights involving DPH’s dedicated nursing staff over the past year include:, DPH’s Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN) nurses served 2,637 clients, including 437 new enrollees into CYSHCN services. CYSHCN nurses also: Provided 588 clients and their families with health care transition planning to support the purposeful, planned movement of adolescents and young adults from child-centered to adult-centered medical care; Provided long-term follow-up…, said Gwen Thompson, DPH’s Director of Healthcare Quality, . “Their deep knowledge and dedication play a critical role in guiding healthcare facilities toward excellence, ensuring regulatory standards are met, and more importantly, helping to improve the health and well-being of South Carolinians.” ###
- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:, Oct. 23, 2024 COLUMBIA, S.C. – National Pharmacy Week is observed Oct. 20-26, and the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is recognizing the important contributions pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and Drug Control agents make to patient care across the state. The Pharmacy Section within DPH’s Bureau of Clinical Services is responsible for the operational, professional and…, said Caroline Sojourner, DPH pharmacy director, . “The pharmaceutical care provided by DPH’s pharmacists and pharmacy technicians is critical to the health and well-being of our families, friends, and all members of our communities.” DPH’s Bureau of Drug Control plays a key role in regulating those who manufacture, distribute, prescribe or dispense controlled substances by issuing controlled substance registrations and overseeing the state’s…, said Lisa Thomson, DPH Drug Control director, . “Their hard work helps prevent the misuse of controlled substances in our state, and Pharmacy Week is an excellent opportunity to acknowledge and thank them for their dedication to the safety and well-being of our residents.” DPH’s Drug Control inspectors have two main focuses: a regulatory component and a law enforcement component. The regulatory aspect consists of monitoring controlled…, Any media seeking to talk with a DPH expert on this topic may email, media@dph.sc.gov, . ###
- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Oct. 23, 2024 COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) announced today that the state has suffered its first influenza-associated death of the season. "Sadly, a person from the Midlands region has died from complications due to the flu, becoming our first confirmed influenza-associated death of the season that officially started September 29,”, said Dr. Linda Bell, State Epidemiologist and director of DPH’s Health Programs Branch., “This is a sober reminder that the flu can be deadly. Unfortunately, we see many deaths, hospitalizations and other serious complications of flu each year in our state,”, Dr. Bell said, . “Getting vaccinated against this disease is the best way to prevent the flu, and I recommend that all of us who are able get our shot as soon as possible.” DPH and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that everyone 6 months of age and older get vaccinated. Preventing the flu is particularly important for people who are at increased risk of complications from the virus,…, Dr. Bell said. , “Just like with the flu, being vaccinated is the best protection against severe illness from COVID-19 or RSV. People should talk with their health care provider about vaccination for them.” As these respiratory illnesses circulate in our communities, it is possible to get sick with one or more of them. Most people who get sick have mild cases and recover in one to two weeks. However, some people…
- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:, Sept. 6, 2024 COLUMBIA, S.C. — In celebration of National Food Bank Day Friday, Sept. 6, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) thanks our dedicated statewide partners who operate food banks and pantries that provide sustenance and fresh food to South Carolinians in need. One in eight South Carolinians – including one in six children – are food insecure, according to the nonprofit…, said Dr. Edward Simmer, DPH interim director, . “The hundreds of food banks and pantries across our state are a true community effort, relying on those who operate and support them as well as those who donate to them. Today, we thank our residents who provide assistance to their fellow residents in need.” Clemson University College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences (CBSHS) and the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services…, said Leslie Hossfeld, dean of the College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences, . “This partnership is one of the many ways CBSHS and the Department of Environmental Services are working to improve the health and well-being of South Carolinians, and I am proud of how the Food Access Map continues to meet individuals’ needs and support food bank services across the state.” , Some Ways DPH is Helping Reduce Food Insecurity in South Carolina , In January, staff from DPH’s Bureau of Community Nutrition Services volunteered at Harvest Hope Food Bank - Columbia . Staff members helped inspect, sort, prepare and pack goods to be donated to the community. Harvest Hope is South Carolina’s largest food bank, feeding the hungry across 20 counties in South Carolina. In July, DPH partnered with Greenwood Counts Community Consortium (GC3) Food…, Dr. Edward Simmer, DPH interim director, . In January, the Food Security Council submitted its final report to the legislature which included 16 recommendations to increase food security for all South Carolinians. ###
- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:, Sept. 10, 2024 COLUMBIA, S.C. – As World Suicide Prevention Day is observed Sept. 10, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) aims to raise awareness, spread hope and share vital information on how everyone can play a role in suicide prevention. World Suicide Prevention Day is observed annually during Suicide Prevention Week (Sept. 8-14) and Suicide Prevention Month (September). …, 12th-leading cause of death, in South Carolina in 2021, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), and was the third-leading cause of death for those aged 10 to 34. As outlined in DPH’s most-recent detailed mortality statistics , suicide accounted for , 849 deaths, in South Carolina in 2022. “Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone of any age and walk of life, and, while common, should be addressed with care and sincerity,”, said Kacey Schmitt, DPH’s Director of Social Work, . “It can be hard to do, but it is vital that we have these important conversations with loved ones and others we care about.” The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers the following warning signs of suicide: Comments or thoughts about suicide Increased alcohol and drug use Aggressive behavior Withdrawal from friends, family and community Mood swings Impulsive or…, said Dr. Edward Simmer, DPH interim director, . “These resources can be lifesaving to someone experiencing a mental health crisis, so it’s important that we make everyone aware that help is readily available.” , In South Carolina, the following options are also available to those in suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress: , The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, confidential support via a mental health professional with the Lifeline network. To connect, call or text , 988, . The South Carolina Department of Mental Health Mobile Crisis clinicians provide 24/7 community-based crisis response anywhere in South Carolina. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, contact DMH's Mobile Crisis Team at 833-364-2274 . The SCDMH Deaf Services Hotline is dedicated to people who are deaf or hard of hearing and in crisis or in need of resources. It…, HOPE4SC to 741-741, (Español: , “AYUDA” to 741-741, ). Texts to this line do not use your data or show up on your phone bill. If a situation escalates into a crisis, you may have to call, 911, . NAMI offers advice for calling 911 and talking with police during a mental health crisis. ###
- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:, Sept. 12, 2024 COLUMBIA, S.C. — In observance of Child Passenger Safety Week (Sept. 15-21), the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is emphasizing the critical importance of proper car seat use and hosting a series of educational events. Every year, thousands of children across the country are severely injured or killed in car crashes. Many of these tragedies can be prevented with…, said Emily Barb, Health Educator for the DPH’s Child Passenger Program, . During Child Passenger Safety Week, DPH will host educational events across the state to promote the proper use of car safety seats for children. At the car seat check events, CPS technicians will be available to help parents and caregivers ensure their car seat is properly installed and used correctly for the child’s age, height and weight. Each year, DPH technicians participate in more…