The county said most cases have involved infected foxes, but the disease can impact pets, livestock and humans.
AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has confirmed a rabies outbreak in Hays County.
The Hays County Health Department shared a notice on social media, warning that the outbreak is affecting local wildlife.
According to the notice, most cases have have affected foxes. However, the disease can also impact pets, livestock and humans. The health department said that it is working with the Hays County Sheriff’s Office and local healthcare providers to ensure readiness and coordination in the event that someone is bit by an animal with rabies, as well as with local veterinary offices on education about the disease and local quarantine and isolation protocols.
According to the Hays County Health Department, the best way to be prepared is by:
Ensuring pets and livestock are vaccinated against rabies.Avoiding contact with wild animals, especially those acting strangely or aggressively.Reporting suspicious wildlife behavior to local authorities.
Clinics in Hays County will also be offering free vaccinations to the public, with the next one being at the PALS Clinic in San Marcos on Jan. 17 from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m., and the following one on Jan. 24 at Apollo Veterinary Clinic in Wimberley from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.
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