Fox Attacks Injure Four Raise Rabies Concerns San Marcos Trails

San Marcos officials are investigating a series of fox attacks in the Purgatory Creek Natural Area that have raised concerns about potential rabies exposure. Four individuals were attacked near the Beatrice, Dante, and Ripheus trails, with two people bitten and all undergoing medical treatment as a precaution. Foxes rarely attack humans, so this unusual behavior suggests the animal may be rabid, prompting a search by Animal Protection Officers in collaboration with the Department of State Health Services Zoonosis Division. While the natural area remains open, residents are advised to avoid the affected trails until the investigation is complete. Officials emphasize the importance of prompt medical treatment after contact with the fox, as rabies is a fatal virus if untreated, and remind pet owners to vaccinate their animals against rabies, which is required by law. If the fox is not located, the case will be treated as a presumed rabies positive due to the nature of the incidents.