San Marcos officials have issued a warning after four individuals reported being attacked by a fox at the Purgatory Creek Natural Area. The incidents took place on Sunday near the Beatrice, Dante, and Ripheus trails and have led to concerns about potential rabies exposure. According to KVUE, two of the individuals have been bitten, and all four are now undergoing medical treatment as a precaution against the virus.
"Foxes rarely attack humans, and the unusual behavior raises concerns that the animal may be sick, potentially with the rabies virus," Christie Banduch, San Marcos Animal Service Manager, communicated in a statement obtained by CBS Austin. Despite these incidents, the Purgatory Creek Natural Area remains open, but city officials are advising visitors to stay away from the affected trails.
San Marcos Animal Protection officers are on the hunt for the fox involved, working in conjunction with the Department of State Health Services Zoonosis Division. If the animal is not found, they will treat the case as a presumed positive for rabies, given the fox's aggressive behavior. Officials urge anyone who has had an encounter with the fox to seek immediate medical attention.
Rabies is a serious and potentially fatal virus that can affect all mammals, including humans. Early symptoms can appear similar to the flu, spurring fever, headache, and weakness. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms such as anxiety, confusion, hallucinations, and a fear of water may set in. San Marcos officials remind pet owners to vaccinate their pets against rabies, a step that is not only crucial for animal health but is also mandated by state law and city ordinance. Information on low-cost pet rabies vaccinations is available on the San Marcos city website.
