BEXAR COUNTY, Texas – Bexar County is experiencing an increase in rabies cases, as highlighted by a Texas Department of State Health Services map categorizing the area as a “hot zone” for the disease. Reports indicate that Bexar County recorded 12 rabies cases in 2024, followed by 22 in 2025, and has confirmed 29 cases so far this year, according to a Texas Parks and Wildlife official who addressed the Hollywood Park City Council in June.

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The urgency of the situation heightened after a rabid fox attacked a child in late May in Hollywood Park. Police reported that the fox charged at officers when they arrived. Animal Control Officers euthanized the fox, and it was sent for rabies testing. The child suffered injuries but was reported to be in “good health.”

Bexar County Public Health Director Andrea Guerrero is urging residents to remain vigilant around wildlife, ensure their pets are vaccinated, and report stray animals. Guerrero stated, "Vaccination is the strongest tool against rabies infections." She emphasized the role of public health officials and animal control officers in monitoring the county, in collaboration with various agencies and community reports to identify potential rabies threats.

Health officials advise residents to look out for signs of rabies in animals, including unusual or aggressive behavior, nocturnal animals active during the daytime, and neurological symptoms such as drooling, stumbling, or disorientation. Animals like bats, skunks, coyotes, and foxes are commonly known carriers of rabies.

Visitors at a North Side park expressed appreciation for the reminder to be vigilant, with one park attendee, Michelle Hansen, mentioning awareness of rabies-positive foxes in San Antonio. Dog owner Trevor McCulley stressed the importance of preventive measures, including vaccinating pets, controlling dogs, and managing animal behavior in public spaces.

In case of an animal bite, residents are advised to call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room. For reporting suspicious wildlife, residents can contact the City of San Antonio at 311 or Bexar County at 210-335-9000. The rabies “hot zone” extends beyond Bexar County, including parts of nearby New Braunfels in Comal County and Guadalupe County, emphasizing the need for regional awareness.