Raccoon in a San Marcos tests positive for rabies, residents urged to vaccinate pets

AUSTIN (KXAN) — A raccoon found in a San Marcos neighborhood on April 14 tested positive for rabies, according to the City of San Marcos.

Rabies is a deadly virus that can infect mammals and is spread through an animal’s saliva.

According to the city, the raccoon was found in Coers Circle, near Old Ranch Road 12 and Franklin Drive. It was then collected and sent to the Texas Department of State Health Services laboratory in Austin for testing.

“It is important that anyone that physically contacts or is bitten by a rabid animal seek post-exposure treatment promptly to prevent contracting the virus,” the city said. “Post-exposure treatment for rabies that is provided soon after a bite or exposure is effective at preventing the virus from spreading. Post-exposure treatment consists of a series of injections to build immunity to the rabies virus.”

The city said the public should report any wild animals that appear to be sick or any physical contact with a wild animal to Animal Protection officers by calling 512-805-2655.

Pet owners were urged to vaccinate their pets against rabies to help prevent the spread of the virus.