Bexar County is in a “hot zone” for rabies cases in Texas this year, according to a map from the Texas Department of State Health Services. The county has seen a rise in rabies cases over the past three years, with 12 cases in 2024, 22 in 2025, and 29 confirmed cases so far this year.

Concerns Heightened After Incident in Hollywood Park

In late May, a child was bitten by a rabid fox while playing outside his home in Hollywood Park. The Hollywood Park Police Department reported that officers arrived and the fox charged at them. Animal Control Officers put the fox down and sent it for rabies testing. The boy had injuries and was taken to a clinic, but he was in “good health”.

Bexar County Public Health Director Andrea Guerrero is urging residents to stay alert around wildlife, keep pets vaccinated, and report stray animals. “Vaccination is the strongest tool against rabies infections,” Guerrero said.

Health officials say signs of rabies can include animals acting strangely, and that bats, skunks, coyotes, and foxes are most likely to carry the disease. At a North Side park, visitors told KSAT they appreciate the reminder to stay vigilant.

Dog owner Trevor McCulley emphasized prevention: vaccinate pets, keep dogs under control, and don’t bring animals into public spaces if you can’t manage them. If an animal happens to bite you, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.