October 16, 2026
TXST Community,
Texas State University is sharing this information out of an abundance of caution. On October 9, 2026, at approximately 12:30 a.m., a student was observed picking up an object (possibly a lanyard) which had been carried in the mouth of a fox in the Quad near the Comal Building. If you picked up this object, we urge you to contact EHSREM at 512-245-3616.
Test results have just confirmed that a fox captured October 15 on campus had rabies.
Rabies is a preventable but serious viral disease that can infect wildlife, domestic animals, and humans. In the United States, rabies is most commonly found in wildlife, including bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes.
Rabies is usually transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. Exposure can also occur when saliva from an infected animal comes into direct contact with broken skin or mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, or mouth.
To reduce the risk of rabies exposure and other wildlife-related hazards:
- Do not approach, touch, capture, or attempt to handle wild animals, even if they appear friendly, injured, or sick.
- Do not feed foxes or other wildlife. Feeding can encourage animals to lose their natural avoidance of people and increase the likelihood of repeated encounters.
- Never attempt to remove or relocate a wild animal yourself.
- Keep pets away from wildlife and ensure their rabies vaccinations are current.
- Secure food, trash, and other items that may attract wildlife.
- Report wildlife that is behaving unusually, appears ill or injured, or is in an area where it may pose a concern.
If you have direct contact with a fox or other wildlife, promptly wash any wound or exposed area with soap and water and seek a medical evaluation immediately. Rabies exposures should be evaluated promptly so that a healthcare or public health professional can determine whether treatment is appropriate.
Thank you for helping keep the TXST community safe.
https://www.hayscountytx.gov/686/Rabies-Information
Emergency Management