Hays County reports highest rabies count in Central Texas as CDC limits some national testing

April 8, 2026

Hays County health officials say the county has recorded the highest number of rabies cases in Central Texas. Local leaders have stepped up public messaging to make residents aware of the increased local incidence and the precautions they should take.

At the same time, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has temporarily halted some forms of rabies testing nationwide, an action that affects testing capacity in labs outside Texas. Federal officials described the pause as temporary while they address the issue that prompted the change.

Texas public health authorities and Hays County leaders emphasize that diagnostic services within the state remain operational. They told residents that Texas labs continue to process rabies tests and that the pause on certain national services has not interrupted testing for Texans.

Officials are urging pet owners to make sure dogs, cats and ferrets are up to date on rabies vaccinations, and to schedule booster shots as needed. They also recommended keeping pets away from wild animals and supervising them when outdoors to reduce the odds of an exposure.

Health leaders advised people to avoid touching or trying to rescue wild animals that appear sick or that are behaving abnormally, and to contact local animal control or public health staff instead. Anyone who believes they or their pet may have been exposed should contact a medical provider or veterinarian promptly to discuss testing and post-exposure options.

County and state health departments say they are monitoring the situation closely and will update guidance as new information becomes available. For now, they stress preventive steps, timely vaccinations and prompt reporting of suspected exposures as the best ways to limit further spread.