The Department of Health and Environmental Control says an Horry County man is being treated after he was bitten and scratched by a rabid stray cat.

"Once the rabies virus reaches the brain, the disease is fatal to humans and animals," said Sue Ferguson of DHEC's Bureau of Environmental Health in a press release. "The man, who was attacked outside his Forestbrook place of employment, is receiving preventive inoculations."

Anyone exposed to rabies through a scratch or saliva should get medical attention immediately to prevent the virus from reaching the brain.

"Avoid wild animals acting tame and tame animals acting wild," Ferguson said. "About 400 South Carolinians must undergo preventive treatment for rabies every year, with most exposures from being bitten or scratched by a rabid or suspected rabid animal. Wild animals carry the disease most often, but domestic pets can contract rabies as well.

"Therefore, to protect both the pets and their owners, residents should make sure their pets are regularly vaccinated against the disease. State law requires that all pets be vaccinated against rabies.

"If you think you have been exposed to the rabies virus through a bite, scratch or the saliva of a possibly infected animal, immediately wash the affected area with plenty of soap and water," she said. "Then be sure to get medical attention and report the incident to DHEC."

The cat is the first confirmed rabid animal in Horry County this year. Last year, there were seven confirmed rabid animals in the county.