A college student was attacked and bitten by a potentially rabid fox at a Texas park on Sunday. Michelle Danos, a student at Texas State University, was hiking at Purgatory Creek Natural Area when the attack occurred. Four people were reportedly attacked, with two of them bitten.
Danos said she was caught off guard by the fox’s behavior, which suggested it may be sick with rabies. The fox approached her after she turned around to see what was behind her, and despite her attempts to shoo it away, it continued to attack. Danos eventually threw the fox into a cactus, but not before it bit her multiple times.
Danos was taken to a hospital and received treatment for rabies, including several shots in her arms and leg. She will receive additional doses in the coming days. The City of San Marcos has closed the Beatrice, Dante, and Ripheus trails due to safety concerns, warning anyone who may have been exposed to seek medical attention.
Another hiker, Renita Bock, reported a similar experience at Purgatory Creek earlier that day. Foxes rarely attack humans, but unusual behavior like this raises concerns about potential illness. City officials are advising individuals who may have come into contact with the fox to seek medical attention immediately.
Source: https://www.star-telegram.com/news/state/texas/article306469241.html