Public Notice - Hays County Historical Commission meeting - June 25, 2026

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SAN MARCOS, Texas — The Hays County Commissioners Court has formally approved a resolution addressing the growing rabies outbreak affecting wildlife and pets across the region. The action comes amid rising cases of rabies in local wildlife, including foxes, skunks, and bats, and growing concern among residents. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is the state agency responsible for rabies prevention, surveillance, and control. Under Chapter 826 of the Texas Health and Safety Code, each county must appoint a Local Rabies Control Authority (LRCA). In Hays County, the Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Division serves in this role, responding to rabies concerns involving wildlife, livestock, and pets. Hays County Health Department staff are also working with state partners and community-based organizations to implement rabies prevention strategies, including outreach and vaccination efforts for household pets. “As the County continues to develop its role in supporting the welfare and safety of our animals and residents, it’s important that we address the current outbreak affecting our local wildlife. The health department continues to provide opportunities for residents to receive free or low-cost vaccines, including the rabies vaccine for their cats and dogs,” said Matthew Gonzales, Hays County Health Department Director. “The department will continue to work with local rabies control authorities, including the Department of State Health Services, to monitor the spread of rabies in our community and determine the implementation of best practices, with the court's direction.” As multiple Central Texas counties experience a rise in rabies cases, Hays County has been particularly affected by increased prevalence among fox populations, prompting officials to classify the situation as an outbreak. The Commissioners Court emphasized its commitment to safeguarding residents, animals, and the local ecosystem by supporting proven prevention strategies. The resolution highlights the success of the Oral Rabies Vaccination Program (ORVP), established in 1995 by DSHS in coordination with federal, state, and local partners. The ORVP has played a major role in reducing rabies among coyotes, dogs, and gray foxes in various regions of Texas. In its action, the Commissioners Court: • Expressed strong support for DSHS efforts to seek assistance from federal, state, and local agencies to conduct oral rabies vaccination and other prevention activities, including quarantine enforcement. • Requested that the Governor and Texas Legislature consider adding the rabies outbreak to the call of a Special Session if conditions warrant. • Urged approval of funding requested by DSHS for rabies prevention and treatment efforts, including support for local public health initiatives. "Rabies is a serious public health issue that affects not only wildlife, but also our pets, livestock, and families," said Precinct 3 Commissioner Morgan Hammer. "By supporting state and local prevention efforts, including vaccination programs and public education, Hays County is taking a proactive approach to protecting our community. This resolution demonstrates our commitment to working with our partners to address the outbreak and help keep both residents and animals safe." Copies of the approved resolution will be sent to Governor Greg Abbott, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, members of the Texas Legislature representing Hays County, the Texas Department of State Health Services, and other relevant agencies. The resolution took effect immediately upon its adoption on June 23, 2026. ###

SAN MARCOS, Texas — Regional public health agencies across Central Texas have expanded coordination with regional, state and federal partners as the region prepares to welcome an increase in visitors associated with the FIFA World Cup. Enhanced monitoring and collaboration help identify potential health concerns early and support a rapid, coordinated response, helping protect the health and safety of both residents and visitors. Participating agencies include the Austin Public Health, Bastrop County Public Health Department, Bell County Public Health District, Hays County Health Department, Waco-McLennan County Public Health District and Williamson County and Cities Health District. Summer in Central Texas brings more than sunshine and outdoor activities. It also brings seasonal health risks that public health agencies monitor closely. Warmer temperatures, increased mosquito activity, outdoor dining and large community events can contribute to heat-related illnesses, mosquito-borne diseases and foodborne illness outbreaks. Through ongoing surveillance, public education, prevention efforts and community partnerships, public health officials work to reduce these risks and protect community health. Regional public health officials encourage everyone to take simple precautions while enjoying outdoor summer activities and community events. "Over the next month, we will welcome fans from around the world for an exciting time, whether that is attending watch parties, riding down I-35 and shopping at the outlets, experiencing our beautiful parks or exploring the many other gifts our Hays County community has to offer," said Matthew Gonzales, Hays County Health Department Director. "Having an understanding and awareness of seasonal health risks helps people set themselves up to make the safest and healthiest choices to protect themselves and their loved ones. With just a few simple steps, everyone can enjoy summer activities in the safest way possible.” Play It Smart in the Texas Heat Heat and humidity can create dangerous conditions during the summer months and quickly lead to serious heat-related illnesses, especially for young children, older adults, outdoor workers, athletes and those without reliable air conditioning. Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including: ● Heavy sweating ● Dizziness or fainting ● Nausea ● Cool, clammy skin ● Muscle cramps Without treatment, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening medical emergency. Signs of heat stroke include confusion, loss of consciousness, and a body temperature of 103°F or higher. Call 9-1-1 immediately if you suspect someone is experiencing heat stroke. Taking a few simple precautions can help reduce the risk of heat-related illness while enjoying outdoor activities and summer events: ● Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol. ● Limit Outdoor Activity: Spend time indoors or in air-conditioned spaces during the hottest parts of the day. ● Dress for the Heat: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and a hat when outdoors. ● Check on Friends and Neighbors: Make sure older adults and others without reliable air conditioning stay cool and safe. For more information, visit www.ready.gov/heat . Keep Mosquitoes on the Sidelines Taking a few simple precautions can help reduce mosquito bites and lower the risk of mosquito-borne diseases. Follow the 3 Ds of mosquito safety: ● Drain standing water in flowerpots, pet dishes, and clogged gutters so mosquitoes do not have a place to breed. Treat water that cannot be drained. ● Defend yourself by using EPA-registered insect repellent. ● Dress in long sleeves and pants when spending time outdoors. For more information, visit www.texasmosquito.org/mosquitoes-in-texas . Food Safety is the Winning Strategy Warm summer temperatures can create ideal conditions for harmful bacteria to grow, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. Taking a few simple precautions can help keep food safe: ● Clean hands, utensils and cooking surfaces often. ● Separate produce, meat, poultry, seafood and eggs during preparation. ● Cook food to the proper temperature using a food thermometer. ● Chill perishable foods within two hours. For more information, visit www.foodsafety.gov . Make Staying Healthy Your Goal Large gatherings with people from across the world can bring infectious diseases that communities are not normally exposed to or may have less protection against. Protect yourself and those around you with a few simple steps. Watch for signs of common infectious illnesses, including: ● Fever or chills ● Cough or sore throat ● Runny nose ● Fatigue ● Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea ● New rash If you feel sick, take action to decrease the chance of spreading illness to others: ● Stay home or rest at home or in your lodging if possible. ● Avoid close contact with others until symptoms get better. ● Get medical help if your symptoms get worse or don’t go away. Taking these precautions can help keep you and your community safer while enjoying summer events and welcoming visitors from around the world: ● Keep Your Distance if You’re Feeling Sick: Avoid crowded indoor spaces when sick. ● Wash Your Hands or Use Hand Sanitizer : Keep your hands clean to help prevent the spread of germs that cause illness. ● Practice Respiratory Etiquette: Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow. ● Stay Up to Date on Vaccinations: Make sure routine and travel‑related vaccines are current. For more information, visit https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/index.html Local Public Health's Game Plan An anticipated influx of visitors has prompted epidemiologists to enhance surveillance efforts and strengthen coordination with healthcare providers and public health partners. Ongoing communication and sharing information with regional, state and federal agencies help track emerging health trends and identify potential concerns early. Key preparedness activities include: ● Reviewing response plans and operational procedures ● Increasing disease surveillance and monitoring ● Investigating travel-associated illnesses and outbreak clusters ● Monitoring food service operations and public venues ● Sharing information with healthcare providers and public health partners "We want all of our Hays County residents and visitors to enjoy a fun and healthy summer during such an exciting time," said Kate Esqueda, Community Health Services Manager and Public Information Officer for the Hays County Health Department. "Whether you're exploring the region, attending community events or enjoying our beautiful natural areas, a little preparation before you are on the go can make a huge difference. Simple steps can help reduce health risks to keep you, your family, and the overall community safe all season long." Protecting public health is a shared responsibility. Public health officials encourage residents and visitors to stay informed and take simple steps to protect their health. Knowledge and awareness of seasonal health risks can help individuals and families make informed decisions that support their well-being. Staying hydrated, preventing mosquito bites, practicing food safety and recognizing the signs of illness can help reduce health risks and contribute to a safe and healthy community. For Local Public Health Information Austin Public Health: www.austintexas.gov/health Bastrop County Public Health Department: www.bastropcounty.gov/page/public_health Bell County Public Health District: www.bellcountyhealth.org/ Hays County Health Department: www.hayscountytx.gov/health-department Waco-McLennan County Public Health District: www.waco-texas.com/health Williamson County and Cities Health District: www.wcchd.org ### About the Participating Public Health Agencies This joint release was developed through a collaboration of public health agencies serving communities across Central Texas. Participating agencies work together to monitor health trends, share information, coordinate preparedness efforts and support a regional approach to protecting public health. Participating agencies include: ● Austin Public Health ● Bastrop County Public Health Department ● Bell County Public Health District ● Hays County Health Department ● Waco-McLennan County Public Health District ● Williamson County and Cities Health District