NM health department reports bat with rabies in Sandoval County

The New Mexico Department of Health on Monday reported the state’s ninth case of rabies this year: a bat in Sandoval County, and urged the public to be cautious around bats.

According to a news release, the bat was found in a private home, euthanized and sent for testing by the state’s Scientific Laboratory Division; the people and animals in the home received vaccines following their exposure to the bat.

Bats, officials said, are the animal most associated with rabies in New Mexico, along with foxes, skunks and bobcats, but all mammals can contract the disease. Preventative measures include keeping pets up to date with vaccinations; avoiding wildlife; seeking medical care after an animal bite for human or pet; seeking a rabies vaccine following any exposure to a bat, including waking up to find one in the room.

Officials encourage people who encounter wild animals acting strangely to report them to the New Mexico Department of Wildlife at (888) 248-6866, and to report being bitten to local animal control. People who are exposed to an animal with rabies or who are bitten by an animal can call 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833 796-8773) or text questions to 66364 (NMDOH).

“Rabies is nearly 100% fatal, but 100% preventable,” NMDOH state Public Health Veterinarian Dr. Erin Phipps said in a statement.  “State law requires all dogs and cats be vaccinated against rabies. Unvaccinated pets exposed to rabies must be euthanized or isolated for four months to prevent human exposure.”