NMDOH identifies five wild animals with rabies in southwest New Mexico

SANTA FE, N.M. — The New Mexico Department of Health confirmed rabies in five wild animals recovered in southwest New Mexico.

Officials said Tuesday all of the animals were reported at or near a residence and were acting aggressively toward people.

The animals include a bobcat near Mimbres in Grant County, a fox in the Kingston area of Sierra County and a fox near Datil in Catron County.

State Public Health Veterinarian Tim Hanosh warns, “rabies is a deadly viral disease that can be prevented but not cured.  The virus lives in the saliva of rabid animals and is spread to people or other animals through a bite,” and added, “any person or animal who comes in contact with saliva from a rabid animal can be at risk of getting rabies too and should seek medical treatment immediately.”  

The surest way to protect yourself, your family members, livestock and animals from rabies is to avoid contact with wild animals – and to get your various animals vaccinated against rabies.

Officials also recommend keeping your pets, especially, under observation while outdoors, avoiding leaving any pet food or scraps outside, keeping your garbage solidly sealed and letting authorities know if you see any wildlife behaving oddly.

Any odd wildlife, especially foxes, bobcats, coyotes, skunks, raccoons and bats, can be reported to the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish by calling 505-476-8000 or, after business hours, New Mexico State Police at 505-841-9256.

If you or your pet(s) have been bitten by a wild animal or exposed to their saliva, you are encouraged to immediately call NMDOH at 505-827-0006 anytime.