Rabies - Frequently Asked Questions

See Turnaround Time and Reporting of Rabies Results

Refer to the submission instructions in the Specimen Submission Guidelines 

Notice: Due to biohazard safety guidelines, the laboratory is unable to return carcasses submitted for rabies testing to owners or submitters, no exceptions.

Yes, the Rabies Laboratory accepts rodents.

For an explanation of what the laboratory identifies as an unsatisfactory result, please refer to the Result Interpretation section.

For an explanation of what the laboratory identifies as an inconclusive result, please refer to Result Interpretation section.

The specimen may still be submitted for testing; however, freezing and thawing of brain material should be avoided because it can compromise the testing process. Frozen specimens need to thaw before testing, which may delay results.

Texas DSHS Laboratory does not charge for rabies testing. However, submitters must pay packaging and shipping costs. DSHS Laboratory does not pay for nor reimburse submitters for shipping costs.

You should still submit the specimen to the Laboratory for testing. It is sometimes difficult to predict the condition of the brain by viewing the condition of the exterior of the head. Members of the Rabies Laboratory team will necropsy the specimen and determine, based on the brain material itself, its suitability for testing.

You may call (512) 776-7595 to speak with a member of the Rabies Team.

To view general information about rabies, visit the CDC Questions and Answers about Rabies webpage.

For questions related to submitting or testing of specimens at DSHS, please refer to the Rabies Testing and Submission Contacts.

The DSHS Laboratory cannot make veterinarian referrals nor recommend courses of care for people who suspect they have been in contact with a rabid animal. Please consult with your general practitioner as soon as possible for medical assistance.

No. Reports of suspected or confirmed human cases of rabies must be sent to local or regional health departments immediately. Call 1-800-705-8868 for immediately reportable conditions. Contact information for local health entities across Texas may be found at IDPS | Notifiable Conditions (texas.gov).

It is the responsibility of providers to notify their local or regional health departments. Reporting forms that are faxed or emailed to the Laboratory may not be forwarded to the correct party.