Los Alamos, N.M. – A bat found dead at Bandelier National Monument has tested positive for rabies, marking the first confirmed case of the year in northern New Mexico.
The bat was discovered in the Cottonwood Picnic Area on July 7.
Although there has been no reported human contact, anyone who may have touched or been in contact with a bat in the area earlier this month is strongly advised to reach out to their healthcare provider or the New Mexico Department of Health immediately.
According to the source, Rabies is a deadly disease that can infect any mammal, including bats.
It’s important to recognize that a bat behaving unusually, such as being active during the day, unable to fly, or allowing close approach, may be rabid and should never be touched.
If you encounter a bat, whether dead or alive, avoid contact at all costs.
Bat bites can be extremely small, sometimes not even noticeable or painful.
Therefore, if you suspect any contact with a bat, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider or contact the New Mexico Department of Health at (833) 796-8773.
Rabies vaccines are strongly recommended for those who have had contact with a bat or found one in a room where they were sleeping or where a child was unattended.
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To ensure the safety of you and your family, the New Mexico Department of Health advises the following precautions:
- Keep Pets Leashed: Always keep your pets on a leash. The rabies vaccine is essential in protecting your pets if they encounter a rabid wild animal. Ensure your pets are up to date on their legally required rabies vaccinations and wearing current license tags on their collar. If your pet is bitten or scratched, especially by a wild animal, contact your veterinarian immediately, even if the wound appears minor.
- Consider Livestock Vaccination: Horses and other livestock should also be vaccinated against rabies to protect them from potential attacks by rabid animals.
- Avoid Wild Animals: Stay away from wild or unfamiliar animals. Never attempt to feed, approach, or touch wild animals, whether alive or dead. This is a crucial message to share with your children, and it’s important to always keep a close eye on them.
- Immediate Action After Bites: If you or someone you know is bitten by an animal or comes into contact with an animal’s saliva, wash the exposed area immediately with soap and water. Report the bite to local animal control and seek medical care as soon as possible.
- Seek Medical Attention Promptly: If you or your pets are bitten or otherwise exposed to the saliva of wild animals, it is vital to seek medical care right away and contact the New Mexico Department of Health at (833) 796-8773.