In New Braunfels and the larger Comal County area, residents are being advised to take precautions against rabies following another confirmed case. A fox from within New Braunfels city limits tested positive, marking the area's 24th case this year and the highest number since 2018. Rabies, a lethal disease that targets the nervous system, can be transmitted to humans mostly through bites from infected animals, the City of New Braunfels reported

With cases on the rise, local health officials are emphasizing prevention. To effectively do this, they encourage residents to never approach or carelessly engage with wild animals, including those like raccoons, bats, and foxes. Pets should be kept current on vaccinations, and both trash and pet food ought to be secured to avoid drawing in wildlife. In the case of a bat entering your home, residents are urged to safely contain it and immediately reach out to local authorities.

Encounters that lead to bites or scratches by any animal, familiar or not, should be treated seriously. The advised course of action is to promptly clean the wound and seek professional medical care. Additionally, the local community is requested to keep an eye out for unusual behavior from animals, such as signs of disorientation, aggression, or an unnatural lack of fear.

If an animal, such as a fox, is behaving oddly or seems injured, authorities recommend observing from a safe distance before calling it in. Signs to watch for include partial paralysis, circling, unprovoked aggression, or an animal being strangely tame. "Do not touch sick or injured animals," New Braunfels officials urge. In instances where such behavior is noticed, the New Braunfels Animal Welfare Agency can be reached at 830-608-2183 and the Comal County agency at 830-608-2016.