A fox has tested positive for rabies after biting a man inside New Braunfels city limits on Sunday, Nov. 24.
Comal County Public Health Epidemiologist Connie Alaniz said the county received results today from the Texas Department of State Health Services, which tested the animal.
This marks the 23rd confirmed rabies case in the county, the highest number since 2018.
She said the county is working closely with local authorities and Animal Control to monitor and respond to the situation. Residents are reminded not to touch sick or injured animals and to call Animal Control at 830-608-2016 to report suspicious behavior.
The public should be cautious with unfamiliar animals and take preventive measures while outside.
They include:
- Avoiding wild animals. Do not approach or hand-feed wildlife like foxes, raccoons, bats, or skunks as they may carry rabies.
- Keeping pets vaccinated. Ensure pets are up-to-date on rabies vaccinations.
- Securing food and trash. Store garbage and pet food in sealed containers to avoid attracting wild animals.
- Avoiding bats. If a bat is inside your home, contain it carefully and contact authorities.
- Seeking medical attention for bites/scratches. Clean wounds and seek immediate medical care if bitten or scratched by an animal.
- Report unusual animal behavior. Contact authorities if an animal appears disoriented, aggressive, or unafraid of humans.
Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including humans and is primarily transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, often through bites.
HSNBA Executive Director Sarah Hammond said the incident will not affect New Braunfels’ trap-neuter-return (TNR) for feral cats, which was temporarily suspended on Sept. 16 after two animals in Bulverde and New Braunfels tested positive for rabies.
The program could be suspended again if any more cats turn up positive for the virus.
