Dead fox in Hays County tests positive for rabies; dog now at risk

A dead fox in Hays County tested positive for rabies, potentially exposing a dog, officials said.

The fox's remains were found on Dec. 22 in Woodcreek, Texas, in the area of 12 Palmer Lane. The carcass was submitted for rabies testing and the test came back positive, the Hays County Sheriff's Office said in a message posted on social media.

A small to medium-sized black dog described as a "mixed-breed" was reportedly seen near the dead fox and could have been exposed to the disease. Anyone in the area with a dog matching this description is asked to please contact the Hays County Sheriff's Office's non-emergency line at (512) 393-7896.

Woodcreek is just north of Wimberley and about 38 miles southwest of Austin.

What is rabies?

Rabies is a viral disease that is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear. It wreaks havoc on the central nervous system, causing fever, anxiety, paralysis, confusion and hydrophobia, or fear of water, in humans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In animals, it is known to cause symptoms such as excessive salivation, aggressiveness and self-mutilation, the CDC said.

Rabies is spread through the saliva of infected mammals. Animals can pass it to humans through bites or scratches, but transmission is preventable with prompt post-exposure vaccination.

If left untreated, the disease leads to severe brain disease and death, the CDC said.

Texas health codes require officials to euthanize or quarantine animals that had a suspected exposure to the disease. Owners are required to submit their animals for quarantine in the county where the exposure occurs.